interview: Sara del Sal
In an effort to bolster legal literacy and civic engagement among the region’s youth, the Trieste Police Headquarters has unveiled a collaboration with provincial schools. This strategic partnership, announced amidst a surge in demand from educational institutions across various levels, aims to equip students with a nuanced understanding of legal principles and societal responsibilities.
The initiative, driven by a shared recognition among school administrators and educators of the imperative to address pressing societal issues, encompasses a range of topics including bullying, cyberbullying, gender-based violence, and discrimination. By engaging students in dialogue and education on these critical issues, the initiative seeks to empower young citizens to navigate the complexities of modern society with confidence and integrity.
Tailored interventions, carefully calibrated to the age and educational backgrounds of students, form the cornerstone of this collaborative effort. Through interactive sessions and immersive experiences, students are not only sensitized to the challenges they may face but also equipped with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions and contribute positively to their communities.
Beyond traditional classroom settings, the collaboration extends to experiential learning opportunities, including visits to the Police Headquarters. Here, students are provided with firsthand insights into law enforcement practices, from forensic techniques to community policing strategies. Practical demonstrations, such as fingerprint analysis and patrol car simulations, serve to demystify the workings of law enforcement and foster a deeper appreciation for the vital role it plays in ensuring public safety and upholding the rule of law.
The forthcoming launch of the “PretenDIAMO Legalità” project, endorsed nationally by the Department of the State Police, further underscores the commitment to fostering a culture of legality and civic responsibility. Through this initiative, students will be invited to showcase their creativity and commitment to legal education, with top submissions advancing to compete at the national level.
Among the notable participants in this collaborative endeavor are the Margherita Hack Comprehensive Institute and a selection of primary and secondary schools under its purview. Their engagement underscores a collective commitment to proactive citizenship education and the cultivation of responsible, informed, and engaged young citizens.
Commissioner Barbara Casati, speaking exclusively to InTrieste, expressed optimism about the transformative potential of these initiatives. “By investing in the legal education and civic engagement of our youth, we are not only shaping responsible citizens but also building a stronger, more resilient society for generations to come,” she remarked.
As the partnership between Trieste Police and local schools continues to evolve, it serves as a powerful testament to the potential of collaborative efforts in addressing pressing societal challenges and fostering a culture of legality and civic responsibility among the next generation of leaders and citizens.
