by InTrieste
In a charged address marking the 101st academic year of the University of Trieste, Rector Roberto Di Lenarda, nearing the end of his tenure, delivered a forceful critique of higher education’s evolving landscape. Addressing faculty, students, and regional leaders, he expressed deep concerns over the rapid expansion of online universities, calling them a politically favored phenomenon backed by foreign investment that poses ethical challenges to traditional academia.
“The significant and, in my opinion, pathological growth of online universities, reinforced by legislative support, represents a challenge in terms of competitiveness and alternative educational models, but also in the ethics of learning,” Di Lenarda said, drawing strong applause from the audience, followed by a standing ovation.
Nearing the end of his six-year term, Di Lenarda used the platform to forcefully address pressing issues, including the recent parliamentary decision to abolish the medical school entrance exam and the surge in online universities, which he called a “politically favored phenomenon backed by foreign investment funds.”
Equally firm was his opposition to the Parliament’s recent repeal of medical school entrance exams, a decision made just 48 hours prior to the university’s annual ceremony.
“This measure is dangerous, unworkable, and will have negative repercussions on many other degree programs,” he said. “It is based on incorrect premises: the issue is not a shortage of doctors, but rather the lack of attractiveness of the regional healthcare system. The restricted number of admissions will remain in place despite this reform, and it is inconceivable to establish a national ranking based on grades obtained in first-semester exams.”
Adding another layer to the debate, Anna Colussi, the 22-year-old president of the University’s Student Council, spoke about societal indifference to students’ well-being, emphasizing the immense pressure placed on young people to achieve excellence while neglecting their mental health. She also pointed to declining student participation in university governance, highlighting a growing disengagement among her peers.
Governor of Friuli Venezia Giulia Massimiliano Fedriga reaffirmed the region’s commitment to higher education, underscoring the government’s continued investment in research and academic development. “The regional administration will continue to invest in knowledge, research, and education,” he said, noting that funding for the university system has now surpassed €80 million.
As the ceremony concluded, the speeches reflected a broader debate on the future of higher education, as institutions grapple with digital transformation, student well-being, and the role of regional investment in shaping academic excellence.
Interview: Rector Roberto Di Lenarda;. FVG governor Massimiliano Fedriga
