by InTrieste
In a dazzling celebration marking its 100th anniversary, Trieste University kicked off the academic year 2023-2024 with star-studded festivities attended by Trieste Mayor Roberto Dipiazza, Region Friuli-Venezia Giulia President Massimiliano Fedriga, as well as Riccardo Illy. The event also featured the newly elected President of the Conference of Italian University Rectors (CRUI), Giovanna Iannantuoni.
“In a historic moment for our institution, we’re honored to host the CRUI assembly for the first time in our history,” announced Rector Roberto Di Lenarda. “In this pivotal year, we’re not just looking back; we’re boldly looking forward. We want to underscore the crucial role that public universities play and call for robust support through an effective funding system, bridging the gap between North and South and between public and private institutions. Regulating online universities is essential, and we need to substantially boost the number of graduates with proper financial backing to face challenges like artificial intelligence, energy crises, and the impending demographic decline.”
Giovanna Iannantuoni, CRUI President, emphasized the broader mission of universities beyond educating the youth. “Universities are pivotal for research and innovation,” she stated. “While the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) is currently providing vital support, we need to start thinking about the Italy we want beyond 2026. Italy deserves to become a hub where tradition and innovation flourish, economically prosperous and attractive to young talents. Our universities are pushing in this direction, but success requires more than individual efforts. The link between economic growth, social development, and innovation must be reaffirmed in concrete economic policy choices.”
Rector Di Lenarda, in his inaugural address, reflected on the century-long journey of the University of Trieste, from its founding in 1924 to its present status with ten departments.
“The centenary is not just a look back; it’s a courageous look ahead,” Di Lenarda asserted. “In the coming years, we’re gearing up to tackle global challenges, investing in innovative teaching methods, expanding cross-disciplinary training initiatives, and intensifying connections with industry. We aim to enhance research capabilities, leveraging Trieste’s strategic location and participating in international alliances.”
Financially, Trieste University is on solid ground with research funds totaling 19 million euros, thanks to increased PRIN funding. With a 20% surge in enrollments in 2023, including 552 international students, the university is gaining momentum. Faculty numbers are up to 744, with a reduction in the average age by approximately 4 years, while technical-administrative staff crucial for university functionality is on the rise.
In a dazzling centennial celebration, the university’s rector dropped a headline-worthy bombshell: Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella and former Slovenian President Boris Pahor are set to be bestowed with honorary degrees. This jaw-dropping move isn’t just about pomp and circumstance; it’s a symbolic nod to the intricate dance of diplomacy and reconciliation. Picture this: two heavyweight political players being honored on our campus, forging a historic link between nations. It’s not just an announcement; it’s a seismic event in the annals of our university’s history, marking a milestone that’s as monumental as it is symbolic. The echoes of this moment will reverberate across generations.
In a discussion about the future, Riccardo Illy, President of the Polo del Gusto, took the stage to deliver a lecture on “Trieste and its University in the era of creative destruction.” Illy, a key figure in the realm of taste, delved into the contemporary revolutions—economic, digital, and energetic. He also delved into the challenges of our times—employment, demographic, and cultural turbulence. Illy emphasized that Trieste has its ally in the university, stating that having the university by its side “means being able to face these upheavals with greater tranquility and the awareness of having the best support available.”
For details on all centennial events open to the public, visit https://100anni.units.it/.
