On October 12, 2024, nearly 1,700 students gathered at the Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) in Lisbon, Portugal, to participate in what has now been recognized as the largest computer programming lesson in history. This event aimed not only to break a world record but also to promote computer literacy among a diverse age group, ranging from 12 to 67 years old.

The IST’s initiative to host this record-breaking lesson was driven by a desire to position Portugal as a burgeoning hub for information technology. IST chief Rogerio Colaco emphasized that understanding computer science is as essential today as literacy was a century ago. He stated, “Everyone must know a little bit about computer science, about programming, to live in the present world.”

Guinness World Records adjudicator Paulina Sapinska confirmed the final count of participants, stating, “The final total was counted on how many people were here and 1,668 participants were achieved.” This achievement not only sets a new benchmark but also serves as a testament to the growing interest in programming and technology education in Portugal.