The Government announced in Leiria that school reconstruction will follow a common construction model inspired by countries exposed to 200 km/h winds to ensure structural resilience. Minister of Education, Science and Innovation Fernando Alexandre stated that the goal is to prevent schools from becoming inoperable during future storms. The government is working with local municipalities to redesign existing projects, allowing for adjustments to increase resilience against storms, earthquakes, and fires. This initiative is part of a broader plan to invest over 1.55 billion euros in nearly 400 schools across Portugal by the end of the decade, following the widespread destruction caused by storms Kristin, Leonardo, and Marta.
Severe weather: Minister says school reconstruction will be based on a model capable of withstanding cyclonic winds

Context & Explainers
Fernando Alexandre is the Minister of Education, Science, and Innovation in Portugal's current government, which took office in April 2024. An economist by training, he previously served as a Secretary of State and is now responsible for managing the national school system and university funding. He recently sparked debate by suggesting that university tuition fees should be adjusted to account for inflation.
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Other news coverage of this topic
- Schools to be wind-proofed against 200 km/h gusts following Storm Kristin11:47pm, 27 Mar 2026 • Observador
- School reconstruction will be based on a model that withstands cyclonic winds7:49pm, 27 Mar 2026 • RTP Notícias
- Minister says school reconstruction after storm damage will be based on a model that withstands cyclonic winds7:38pm, 27 Mar 2026 • Correio da Manhã
- Reconstruction of schools affected by storms will be based on a model that supports cyclonic winds7:31pm, 27 Mar 2026 • Expresso







