by InTrieste
Interview: Rector of the University of Trieste, Donata Vianelli
In a moment of global uncertainty, the University of Trieste has extended a gesture of support to a young Palestinian student, offering him the opportunity to continue his studies in Italy.
Donata Vianelli, rector of the university, described the arrival of the student, who received a scholarship to pursue a three-year engineering program. “Last night, my delegate for development cooperation went to Milan airport to pick him up,” Vianelli said. “He was understandably shaken from the journey and the circumstances he’s experienced, but also eager to begin his studies. Thanks to the Region, we were able to arrange early entry into student housing, so he is supported both by the University and by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, which provides his accommodation.”
Students at the university have also expressed a commitment to welcoming the new arrival. A Palestinian student studying data science and artificial intelligence, who is waiting to meet him in Trieste, emphasized the importance of integration and support. “We must try to network to help him,” she said. “He’s far from his family and his country, and the situation he’s experienced in recent years has included university closures. Here, he can finally resume his studies.”
The program created for incoming students includes accelerated Italian courses to promote integration, providing both academic and cultural support. Vianelli highlighted the broader significance of such initiatives: “It’s encouraging that these efforts come from young people, who are our future. Their willingness to help demonstrates solidarity in a time of crisis.”
While discussions about rebuilding universities in Gaza remain premature, Vianelli noted that initiatives across Italy, including this scholarship program supported by CRUI (the Conference of Italian University Rectors), show that support for displaced students is already underway. “Seeing the photo of the Palestinian student who landed in Milan yesterday was truly moving,” she said. “The gift he gives us by accepting our welcome is profound, and the emotion is felt by everyone.”
The university continues to focus on concrete actions, emphasizing practical support for students affected by conflict, even as broader uncertainties persist in the region.
