The Federal University of Western Pará (Ufopa) is set to make history as it holds the inauguration ceremony for its rectory in Santarém, a significant departure from the previous practice of hosting such ceremonies in Brasília. Taking place on Friday, the ceremony will be presided over by the Minister of Education, Camilo Santana, and will feature the presence of various authorities and members of the academic community. This event emphasizes the university's connection to its local roots in the western region of the Amazon.

Aldenize Xavier, who was elected during an academic consultation in October 2025, will take over the leadership of the university starting April of this year. Her appointment represents a new era for Ufopa, highlighting the institution's commitment to community engagement and responsiveness to local needs. The choice to host the ceremony in Santarém, rather than the typical location, suggests a focus on fostering a deeper relationship with the local population and recognizing the importance of regional representation.

The ceremony is expected to attract a varied audience, including students, indigenous representatives, and local authorities, showcasing the inclusive ethos of Ufopa. By inviting diverse stakeholders, the university aims to reinforce its role as a significant educational institution in Pará and to encourage wider participation from the community in its future endeavors. This unprecedented event is a step towards decentralizing academic authority and recognizing the significance of local contexts in higher education administration.