From 10 to 14 November, the Polytechnic University of Viseu (IPV) hosted the EUNICE Alliance Games 2025, bringing together students from the universities of the European University Alliance EUNICE for five days of competition, multicultural exchange and international bonding.
The Opening Ceremony on 10 November officially launched the event with a parade of the participating teams, institutional speeches and a vibrant celebration of the European spirit that defines EUNICE. Throughout the week, teams competed in volleyball and basketball, in an atmosphere marked by dedication, fair play and enthusiasm.
After intense matches and strong support from the stands, the finalists battled for the EUNICE Alliance Games 2025 titles in Viseu. In the volleyball tournament, the Poznan University of Technology (Poland) secured first place, followed by the University of Cantabria (Spain) in second, and the home team, the Polytechnic University of Viseu (Portugal) guaranteed the third place.
In the basketball tournament, the University of Cantabria (Spain) claimed the top of the podium, with the Université Polytechnique Hauts-de-France (France) finishing in second place, and the Poznan University of Technology (Poland) taking third.
In addition to the competitions, participants enjoyed a rich cultural programme designed to deepen their connection with the city, the region and Portuguese culture. Activities included an orienteering experience, promoting teamwork and exploration; a visit to Académico de Viseu, offering insights into local sports culture; and the immersive workshop “A Sensory Journey to Portugal”, where students discovered the country through its five senses.
In parallel to the Games, students also participated in a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) titled “Communication in Sports”, which combines online and face-to-face learning. This programme, organised by EUNICE and hosted by IPV, is designed to develop key competences in intercultural communication, leadership and teamwork within a sports context, perfectly aligning with the event’s European and collaborative spirit.
The Closing Ceremony, held at the Aula Magna of IPV, unfolded in an extraordinary atmosphere filled with the contagious energy of the teams and a strong sense of community. Students took to the stage to receive their medals and trophies in a moment of celebration, pride and recognition for their efforts throughout the five days.
The ceremony concluded with the symbolic passing of the torch to the University of Cantabria, the next host of the EUNICE Alliance Games, reinforcing the Alliance’s ongoing commitment to cooperation,
mobility and collective growth.
The EUNICE Alliance Games 2025 ended with enthusiastic applause, team photos and the shared feeling that participants left Viseu not only with results, but with unforgettable memories, new friendships and the true European spirit.
