Copel receives SESI ODS Award for encouraging student retention in electrical engineering courses
Programa Aluno Energia, from Copel, wins first place in SESI ODS 2026 Award and stands out for supporting university students' retention in Paraná
Copel’s Energy Student Program came first in the SESI ODS 2026 Award, promoted by the Federation of State Industries of Paraná (Fiep). The award ceremony took place on Thursday afternoon (29), in Curitiba. The initiative, which seeks to reduce university evasion in engenharia elétrica and related courses, won in the Social category, subcategory Big Door Industry.
The award recognizes best practices aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Paraná. Focusing on social inclusion and the formation of new talent for the electrical sector, the Copel project was recognized after going through two stages of technical evaluation.
In the first phase, the projects were judged by a commission formed by three Fiep employees. In the second stage, the finalist practices were evaluated by a committee of professionals in the area of sustainability.
According to Copel’s Superintendent of Sustainability, Luísa Nastari, receiving this tribute from the Social Service of Industry (SESI) consolidates the company’s commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices, as well as confirming that the Energy Student Program “is on the right path”. “This recognition highlights the impact of the initiative in expanding opportunities for young talent. It contributes to the reduction of inequalities, supports the permanence in higher education and strengthens the training of professionals for the future of the electricity sector," he says.
Launched in 2023, Aluno Energia combines monthly scholarship, notebook on loan, voluntary mentorship conducted by Copel managers, academic follow-up and paid internship in the final years of graduation. Since its inception, the initiative has received 217 applications, selected 50 students and kept 45 participants active, achieving a stay rate of 90%.
Present in 17 municipalities and five public institutions of higher education in the State, the program contributes to the reduction of educational inequalities, the training of qualified professionals for the electricity sector and the expansion of opportunities for social and economic development for young people in situations of vulnerability.
SESI Seal
With the award, Copel has guaranteed the right to use the SESI ODS 2026 Seal in its promotional materials over the next year, highlighting its practical commitment to sustainable development.
The UN SDGs are a global call to end poverty, protect meio ambiente and the climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. The Energy Student is directly aligned with three SDGs: SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduction of Inequalities).
