Italian towns boost youth opportunities with education and sports projects

The municipality of Marsicovetere in Basilicata has formally applied to become a founding member of the new ITS Academy for the agro‑food sector. The move, driven by Mayor Marco Zipparri and school director Marinella Giordano, aims to create a high‑tech training institute that links curricula directly with local businesses, improve employment prospects for graduates and support the region’s transition to sustainable agriculture.

In Abruzzo, the town of Civitella Roveto secured a €550,000 grant for the renovation and expansion of its municipal sports centre after reaching a population threshold through an agreement with the neighbouring comune of Luco dei Marsi. The project will upgrade facilities for football, padel, tennis, boxing, swimming and other activities, enhancing accessibility and promoting social inclusion through sport.

Both initiatives are part of broader municipal strategies to retain young residents, foster local economic development and improve community services.