Italy launches school programs to prevent gender-based violence

New educational initiatives are being launched in Italy to combat gender-based violence within schools through specialized training and interactive workshops.

The “Youth For Love” project, a collaboration between ActionAid Italia, the Educare alle Differenze network, and La Tecnica della Scuola, will offer a free 10-hour training course for teachers from 2025 to 2027. Under the scientific direction of Dr. Giovanna Vingelli from the University of Calabria, the program aims to help educators identify subtle signs of violence, such as stereotypes or problematic relational dynamics, that are often mistaken for jokes. The curriculum includes video interventions and practical teaching tools for various disciplines.

In the Veneto region, the “SicuraMente” project is targeting secondary schools through the “Sicura” regional campaign. This initiative utilizes theater and workshops to engage students directly. It features the play “Noi – Credevo fosse amore,” produced by the Fondazione Giulia Cecchettin ETS in collaboration with Zelda Teatro. The program combines classroom laboratories, theatrical performances, and follow-up educational meetings to provide adolescents with the critical tools necessary to recognize discrimination and violent behaviors.