Alongside its two fundamental missions—teaching and research—the Italian university system pursues a third: placing knowledge at the service of social, cultural, and economic development in its region. This is the so-called Third Mission, aimed at generating a tangible impact on society.
The Università per Stranieri di Perugia is a specialist university founded on a cultural project deeply rooted in the Umbrian region, yet with a pronounced international outlook: the promotion of Italian language, culture, and civilization in all their forms.
Today, the Stranieri continues to nurture this “virtuous dualism,” envisioning the Third Mission as a bridge between Umbria and the world. On one hand, it enhances Perugia and the surrounding area through internationalization; on the other, it takes local identities and excellence beyond regional boundaries, sharing them with a global audience.
This vision of the Third Mission goes beyond the mere application of teaching and research outcomes: it also gathers and transmits the values that have defined the University’s identity for over a century. From its founding principles of peace and cooperation to today’s most relevant topics—sustainability and inclusion—the Università per Stranieri remains a cultural reference point both locally and internationally.
Public engagement encompasses all activities through which the University opens itself to society, engaging citizens, schools, associations, businesses, institutions, and the local community. It means establishing dialogue and collaboration with the public—not only to disseminate knowledge, but also to listen, share, respond to social needs, and jointly develop solutions. In this area, the Public Engagement of the Università per Stranieri di Perugia has been anticipating its formal recognition as the 'third mission' for decades; for about forty years, the University has organized an extensive calendar of cultural and scientific events open to the wider public, as well as projects with social objectives, often in partnership with local and national organizations.
Continuing education encompasses all the educational opportunities offered by the University for Foreigners of Perugia to those who have already completed their "traditional" studies but wish to continue learning, updating, or specializing. It is aimed at adults, whether employed or unemployed, and anyone who wants to enhance or certify their skills throughout their lifetime.
The University for Foreigners of Perugia actively collaborates with companies, institutions, public bodies, and associations to promote research, innovation, and shared growth. These partnerships make it possible to address real-world challenges, develop practical solutions, and create new opportunities for students, researchers, and businesses. Through joint projects, internships, scientific consulting, and training activities, the University positions itself as a dynamic and open institution, committed to putting knowledge at the service of the local community and society at large.
The University for Foreigners of Perugia is actively committed to social responsibility, promoting values of inclusion, sustainability, equity, and active citizenship. Through projects, initiatives, and collaborations, the University contributes to the social, cultural, and environmental well-being of its students, staff, and the surrounding community.
The University for Foreigners of Perugia is committed to enhancing its artistic and cultural heritage, considered a living resource to be shared with the community. The University promotes the appreciation and engagement with its historical, architectural, artistic, and archival assets, strengthening its ties with the local area and helping to convey the value of culture as a common good and a means for collective growth.