Rome focuses on AI innovation and Sapienza University leadership

In Rome, discussions regarding the future of digital infrastructure and academic leadership are taking center stage. The NoF 2026 conference, hosted by Universitas Mercatorum, has brought together scholars from 29 countries to discuss the integration of artificial intelligence, 6G, and next-generation networks. The focus remains on how these technologies can impact healthcare, mobility, cybersecurity, and public services through international scientific collaboration.

Simultaneously, Sapienza University of Rome has begun the process of electing a new rector. The election involves five candidates and carries significant weight for the institution, which serves 126,000 students and manages two university clinics. The leadership will be responsible for directing research, resource distribution, and the university's role in the regional economy.

On the media front, a new two-part television special titled ‘Mercanti dell’anima – L’AI e il nostro futuro’ aired on La7. Produced by journalist Federico Fubini, the program examines the economic and political power dynamics behind the artificial intelligence race, questioning the motivations of industry leaders who discuss existential risks while accelerating product development.