On the occasion of the first Universities Day, the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, and the Minister of Universities and Research, Anna Maria Bernini, addressed messages of greeting to the academic communities, which today are engaged in the celebrations of the annual event.

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC SERGIO MATTARELLA

I extend my warmest greetings to all participants in the 'Universities Unveiled' event held to celebrate the first National Universities Day, established by the Conference of Italian University Rectors.

'Unveiling Universities' means highlighting the crucial role played by universities in the cultural education of young people and, therefore, in the development of the Republic.

It means strengthening the bonds between centres of culture and research and the community, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge, participation in public life, and reinforcing social cohesion.

It means being able to look to the future.

The promotion of the development of culture and scientific research, a fundamental principle enshrined in the Constitution, finds in the invaluable work of the universities a privileged driver for the growth of human capital, the true strength of the country.

Today, by opening to the public the structures, monumental complexes and museums in which they are located, universities seize the opportunity to showcase their mission, enhancing their very identity.

All universities are to be praised for their work and we wish that they will continue to be, as they have been over the centuries, a factor of cohesion and innovation. 

VIDEO MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER FOR UNIVERSITIES AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ANNA MARIA BERNINI (in Italian)