Italian cities advance university campus projects to curb youth loss

In Pordenone, Mayor Marco Salvador called on the municipal council to cooperate on major strategic issues, stressing that the city’s aging population and youth out‑migration require a new university campus in the former Bronx area and preparation for the Italian Capital of Culture 2027. He argued that attracting and retaining students will strengthen the local economy and create lasting cultural and employment benefits.

In Cosenza, former councilor Francesco Alimena explained how the University of Calabria’s campus was established in the historic San Domenico complex. He emphasized that simply restoring historic buildings is insufficient; there must be integrated plans for residences, services and a broader urban vision to avoid “empty boxes” and to support a thriving student community.