by InTrieste
In a significant move to support student welfare, Italy’s Ministry of University and Research has announced the allocation of over €910,000 to universities in Friuli Venezia Giulia region. The funds aim to foster inclusion and enhance critical support services, including the activation or expansion of anti-violence help desks.
The University of Trieste, the University of Udine, and the International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA) are set to benefit from the initiative, which comes as part of a broader effort to address the increasing mental health and social challenges facing students in higher education.
“We are strengthening the ‘toolkit’ available to universities,” said Anna Maria Bernini, Italy’s Minister of University and Research, in a statement. “Our goal is to ensure students have the necessary resources to address distressing situations promptly. We aim to prevent crises before they arise and foster personal growth for all, moving beyond a focus solely on performance.”
The funding is part of a €35 million national allocation from the Ministry’s Ordinary Financing Fund (FFO). An additional €20 million has been earmarked under the Pro-Ben 2024 program to finance research projects that tackle emotional fragility and psychological distress, emphasizing cognitive aspects of mental health.
This dual approach reflects growing recognition of the urgent need to address mental health challenges in academic settings. University students worldwide have reported rising levels of stress and anxiety in recent years, and Italian institutions are no exception.
By prioritizing inclusion and support, the government hopes to create an environment where students not only excel academically but also thrive personally. The effort marks a broader cultural shift in Italy, where discussions around mental health are increasingly gaining prominence.
For Friuli Venezia Giulia, a region known for its academic excellence and international collaborations, the initiative underscores its commitment to fostering a nurturing and inclusive educational landscape. Whether this approach sets a precedent for broader reforms in Italy remains to be seen, but for now, students in this northern region are poised to benefit from a renewed focus on their well-being.
