On Thursday 2 April, the University of Salerno hosted UniSA Kids Day 2026, an initiative dedicated to the children of the University’s staff, which this year forms part of the citizen science activities promoted by the NEOLAiA Alliance, specifically within Work Package 8.
The event, organised in collaboration with “UNISA Pari Opportunità”, coordinated by Prof. Valeria Giordano, and with the Interdepartmental Centre for Public Philosophy & Public Science, directed by Prof. Davide Monaco, stands as a concrete example of the university’s openness to the community, with significant educational and social value.
The day began at 10.00 am with official opening remarks at the “Filippo Alison” University Theatre. Speakers included the Rector, Prof. Virgilio D’Antonio; the Equal Opportunities Officer, Prof. Valeria Giordano; the Third Mission Officer, Prof. Orlando Troisi; the representative of the Interdepartmental Centre for Public Philosophy & Public Science, Prof. Davide Monaco; and the UNISA coordinator for the NEOLAiA Alliance, Prof. Vittorio Scarano. The speeches highlighted the value of the initiative in promoting inclusion, participation and dialogue between the university and the community.
Following this, the University Theatre hosted the musical Trotula and the Enchanted Garden, produced by the Compagnia Animazione 90 and directed by Gaetano Stella. At the end of the performance, the young participants had the opportunity to interact with the actors and actresses, transforming the show into a moment of exchange and discovery.
The morning then continued with a snack break and the opening of educational and creative workshops organised by the University’s departments, during which the children were able to learn whilst having fun and experience first-hand activities linked to the world of research.
In the spirit of WP8’s commitment to citizen engagement in knowledge-building processes, UniSA’s Kids Day transformed the campus into an interactive space. Children were able to explore the academic world through creative, hands-on and inclusive activities. This initiative strengthens the bond between the university and the local community while promoting a culture of sharing and participation.
This event is thus part of a series of strategic initiatives aimed at promoting an increasingly inclusive university, attentive to the work-life balance and capable of actively involving the younger generation in pathways of learning and scientific citizenship.
All photos from the event are available in our gallery.
