Macerata launches sixth edition of school violence prevention project

The sixth edition of the “Guardami negli occhi – Scuola libera dalla violenza” (Look Me in the Eyes – School Free from Violence) project has been launched in Macerata, Italy. Originally an initiative of the Municipality of Macerata’s Equal Opportunities Department, the program has expanded through collaboration with local institutions, schools, and associations.

The project is promoted by Ambito Territoriale Sociale 15 in partnership with the Macerata Provincial Anti-Violence Network, with activities implemented by the Help SOS Salute e Famiglia association. The program targets third and fourth-year high school students, involving 22 classes and approximately 500 students in training focused on respect, gender equality, relational responsibility, and violence prevention.

Educational activities include specialized training and workshops. Cultural integration is also a component, featuring a remote workshop led by director Michele Pirani centered on the opera “Il Trovatore” to explore themes of love, power, conflict, and the female condition. Mayor Sandro Parcaroli expressed interest in expanding the initiative to primary schools in the future to foster sensitivity in younger children.