16.09 – Saturday 25 May 2024
The Province and the University of Trento in conversation with the minister for universities and research. The future of the Trentino university. A university with an international scope and open to distance learning. This is what the Province represented to the minister of university and research at the discussion table held in the Region building on the sidelines of the Festival of Economics. In addition to the competent minister, the meeting was attended by the president of the province, the provincial councilor for economic development, work, university and research, the rector of the University of Trento Flavio Deflorian, the general director of the University of Trento Alex Pellacani and the general manager of the Economic Development, Research and Work Department Laura Pedron. On the table is the continuity of funding post 2026, i.e. when the Pnrr investments will be concluded and the question linked to the possibility of offering lessons electronically without affecting the quality of the training offer.
A cordial conversation in which the peculiarities of the University of Trento and the many daily challenges it faces were illustrated. Despite the complexity of management, the university is increasing its appeal both towards students and teachers arriving from abroad, is investing in the new headquarters of the medical school and in specialization schools and increasing the numbers of students enrolled in nursing degree. The rector reiterated, in continuity with his speech at the Festival, the strategic nature of research infrastructures which have always represented a crucial element of attractiveness for Trento.
The focus then shifted to research, and a clarification was requested regarding the possibility of giving continuity to the existing research doctorates, in particular those of national interest, once the Pnrr has expired. The minister clarified, having obtained reassurance from the councilor for universities and research on the responsibility in making investments, that the research centers will be evaluated based on performance. At this stage, the minister highlighted, it is necessary to enhance the prospect of investment rather than that of spending. Furthermore, it is necessary to ensure that the centers focus on internationalization and strengthen interactions with private companies.
With regard to distance learning, the minister highlighted the opportunity to make the in-person training offer of universities blended, enhancing some aspects of remote training. The objective on which the Mur is strongly focused is however that of guaranteeing the quality of the educational offer, regardless of the delivery method.
