Alongside its two fundamental missions – teaching and research – the Italian university pursues a third: putting knowledge at the service of the social, cultural, and economic development of the region. This is the so-called Third Mission, which aims to generate a real impact on society.
The University for Foreigners of Perugia is a specialized institution born from a cultural project deeply rooted in the region of Umbria, but with a strong international vocation: to promote the teaching of the Italian language, culture, and civilization in all their forms.
Today, the University for Foreigners continues to cultivate this “virtuous dualism,” conceiving the Third Mission as a bridge between Umbria and the world. On the one hand, it enhances Perugia and the surrounding area through internationalization; on the other, it brings local identity and excellence beyond its borders, presenting them to a global audience.
This vision of the Third Mission goes beyond the mere application of the results of teaching and research: it also gathers and conveys the values that have characterized the University’s identity for over a century. From the founding principles of peace and cooperation, to today’s key themes of sustainability and inclusion, the University for Foreigners remains a cultural point of reference, both locally and internationally.
Public engagement is the set of all activities through which the University opens itself up to society, involving citizens, schools, associations, businesses, institutions, and the local area. It means engaging in dialogue and collaboration with the public, not only to share knowledge, but also to listen, to share, to respond to social needs, and to build solutions together. In this respect, the Public Engagement of the University for Foreigners of Perugia has anticipated its structured approach to the third mission by decades; for about forty years, in fact, the University has organized a wide range of cultural and scientific events open to the public, as well as projects for social purposes, also carried out in partnership with local and national organizations.
Continuing education is the range of learning opportunities that the University for Foreigners of Perugia offers to those who have already finished "traditional" studies but wish to keep learning, updating, or specializing. It is aimed at adults, whether employed or unemployed, and anyone who wishes to enhance or certify their skills throughout their life.
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 challenges, develop concrete 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 point of reference, able to put knowledge at the service of the local area and society.
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 local community.
The University for Foreigners of Perugia is committed to enhancing its artistic and cultural heritage, understood as a living resource to be shared with the community. The university promotes the knowledge and enjoyment of its historical, architectural, artistic, and archival assets, strengthening its connection with the area and helping to pass on the value of culture as a common good and a tool for collective growth.