The organization of the initiative is entrusted to Intercultura ODV, a non-profit volunteer association and a leading organization in the field of intercultural student exchange programs, recognized by the President of the Italian Republic. Since 1955, Intercultura has promoted international school exchanges in over 50 countries around the world, sending more than 2,000 Italian students abroad each year to live and study.
With the guided support of the Association’s volunteers, during their months abroad — immersed in a culture, traditions, and mindset different from their own — these young people have the opportunity to develop personal and interpersonal skills that help them face future professional challenges, as well as to become global citizens. Among these skills are the appreciation of human dignity and human rights, cultural diversity, openness to other cultures, respect, analytical and critical thinking, linguistic, communicative, and multilingual abilities, and a critical understanding of culture and religions [1].
Roberto Ruffino, Secretary General of the Intercultura Foundation:
"We are particularly proud to confirm, for the fourth consecutive year, our commitment to the international and intercultural education of students from technical and vocational schools, thanks to the partnership between the Pesenti Foundation, UniCredit Foundation, and the Intercultura Foundation. We are also delighted to extend the opportunity to study abroad to students in Tuscany. The 39 students who took part in the project over the past three editions have shared their incredible journeys of growth and transformation, having been welcomed into the heart of the host societies as sons, daughters, and students in local families and schools. These young people will contribute to the social capital of our country, helping it to stand on equal footing with other European nations."
Sergio Crippa, Secretary General of the Pesenti Foundation ETS:
"It is with great satisfaction that we renew our support for this educational project year after year — one of the first in Italy to introduce cultural exchange opportunities in Europe for students from technical and vocational schools. The curiosity and enthusiasm we see in young participants before their departure, combined with the joy and fulfillment we witness upon their return, inspire us to continue investing in the education of new generations, helping them gain self-awareness and broaden their horizons."
Silvia Cappellini, General Director of UniCredit Foundation:
"We are thrilled to support this project, which, now in its fourth edition, represents a significant opportunity for the young students involved. Through these scholarships, we aim to offer them the chance to experience education abroad, enriching not only their academic paths but also their personal growth — helping them develop a broader, more global, and intercultural perspective. We are also particularly pleased to announce that, for the first time, the project will include Tuscany, thus embracing not only the North and South but also the Center of the country. It is thanks to initiatives like this that we can help build a more open, inclusive, and internationally aware society."
[1] Reference Framework of Competences for a Culture of Democracy developed by the Council of Europe (2018, Italian translation 2021).
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