The Third Mission encompasses a range of activities aimed at transferring scientific, technological, and cultural knowledge, as well as applying it practically through direct interaction between universities, civil society, and the business world. Its primary goal is to foster the economic and social development of the territory, transforming knowledge into a tool that generates social, cultural, and economic benefits. This mission focuses on enhancing, through practical application, the outcomes of teaching and research, encouraging dialogue, exchange, and mutual growth between the University and various stakeholders in relation to the territory and its relevant social contexts. The ultimate aim is to build a knowledge-based society.
The scientific output of the Department’s researchers and faculty members, while grounded in their respective fields of expertise, extends beyond the confines of academia. It is conceived with a sense of social responsibility and a commitment to contributing to broader public discourse. In this way, the Department plays a key role in facilitating the transfer of knowledge to the wider community, aiming to have a positive impact on the local environment by promoting equity, sustainability, and inclusion. The Department’s activities specifically focus on initiatives for the co-production of knowledge, such as citizen science and contamination labs, as well as participatory democracy projects like consensus conferences and citizen panels. These initiatives not only promote the diversification of beneficiaries but also play a significant role in addressing educational poverty.
The following activities are integral to the Third Mission, categorized according to the evaluation indicators outlined in the ANVUR Manual for Third Mission assessment. Further details can be accessed through this link: ANVUR Manual:
- Third-party contracts
- Archaeological sites and museum hubs
- Consortiums and other collaborative initiatives
- Continuing education programs
- Public engagement activities (including conferences, lectures, public events, and presentations)