Madeira had a higher education institution long before the University of Madeira was established in 1988. The Funchal Medical-Surgical School was created by decree on December 29, 1836, to address the shortage of doctors on the island.
Located at the Hospital de Santa Isabel, in the building that now houses the Regional Government Palace, the school began operating in October 1837. In its first year, 11 students enrolled, and five completed the course in 1840, becoming the first doctors trained locally. Initially, the course lasted three years and required only basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Over its 73 years of operation, the institution trained around 240 doctors, significantly contributing to the development of education and medical care in the archipelago. The Funchal Medical-Surgical School was abolished in November 1910. The solemn opening ceremony of the school took place on October 15, 1838, marking a significant moment in Madeira's health and education history.
