Fernando França, 83, the oldest student at the University of Minho (UMinho), recently published his first scientific article. Research, developed in the framework of the Master's in Textile Engineering, focuses on sustainable thermal insulation solutions from natural fiber waste.
© University of Minho
14/11/2026
by
News to Minutes
Fernado France is 83 years old and is the oldest student of the University of Minho (UMinho), where he attends the master's degree in Textile Engineering. To further prove that knowledge is not old, he recently shared his first scientific article.
“ At the age of 83, Fernando França, a Master's student in Textile Engineering, published his first scientific article, becoming the oldest student of UMinho ", revealed to UMinho in a publication on social networks.
According to the university, “the study, developed in the context of its dissertation, explores sustainable thermal insulation solutions through the recovery of wastes of wool and flax fibers, contributing to a textile industry and a more sustainable construction sector.”.
And he adds: “In the final phase of the master’s degree, Fernando is an inspiring example of dedication, perseverance and lifelong learning.”.
It should be noted that, according to the information available on UMinho website, the master’s degree in textile engineering aims to “enable the future master with a deep knowledge in science and engineering materials and textile design”, as well as “design and implement textile projects, taking advantage of the opportunities provided by the available technology”.
In addition, it aims to “generate and deepen innovative solutions at the technical and functional level, with sensitivity to design aspects and market specificities”, “analyze, interpret, evaluate and integrate the performance results of developed products” and “plan scientific and technological research methods and techniques in the engineering of new products and processes for the textile and clothing industry”.