Accra - "The scientific and innovation system of Friuli Venezia Giulia has been ahead of its time in many of the themes contained in the Mattei Plan. The concept of scientific diplomacy has been a part of this region's history, anticipating the current national and European debates," stated Alessia Rosolen, Regional Councillor for Labor, Education, Training, University, Research, and Family. She participated in the annual assembly of the Friuli Venezia Giulia scientific and innovation system in Trieste, which was dedicated to "International Cooperation and Scientific Diplomacy: the Contribution of Science and Education to the Strategic Partnership between Italy and Africa."

"The Mattei Plan lays out strategic guidelines for addressing three specific issues: demographic decline, immigration, and relations between conflicting countries," Rosolen explained. "It is crucial that the Mattei Plan addresses scientific diplomacy not only in terms of research, development, and relations but also with a strong emphasis on educational pathways."

"The added value of Sis Fvg particularly lies in educational pathways supporting research, the development of new professional roles, and the establishment of the higher education system and ITS. In this context, we have two national excellences: the exchange program of MITS Malignani in Udine with Egypt and that of ITS Alto Adriatico in Pordenone with Ghana," Rosolen added. The day's program focused on these successful examples of cooperation with Africa, presenting projects aimed at bridging the gap between the demand and supply of labor in the manufacturing sector.

Rosolen also highlighted the potential of the Mediterranean region for cooperation, stating, "Technological gaps present opportunities for development and scientific diplomacy. For this reason, it is illogical for universities, which are key players in research, to sever collaborative relationships for political reasons, as these relationships are essential for building bridges and best practices." She concluded by thanking the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Ministry of University and Research for recognizing Trieste and Friuli Venezia Giulia as key players in scientific diplomacy.