HerIT4Future - Heritage for Future: Bridging Italy and Latin America Through Mutual Learning and Innovative Teaching

• Title: Heritage for future: bridging Italy and Latin America through mutual learning and innovative teaching (HerIT4Future)
• Coordinator: University of Bologna
• Partner universities: Polytechnic University of Turin, University of Brescia, University of Calabria, University of Messina, University of Naples “Federico II”, University of Padua, University of Pavia, University of Salento
• Target area: Latin America, with a focus on Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Uruguay
• UNIBO budget: €396,255.24

The HerIT4Future project strengthens cooperation between Italian and Latin American universities through innovative transnational education programmes focused on cultural and natural heritage. The aim is to address major global challenges – such as inclusive education, public health, environmental sustainability and digital transformation – by placing heritage at the heart of shared solutions.

Building on the strong presence of Italian-origin communities in Latin America and a long-standing tradition of academic exchange, HerIT4Future promotes inclusive mobility programmes for students and staff, joint international courses, and interdisciplinary, innovative learning pathways. The project includes the development of joint Master’s and PhD programmes, Advanced Skills Courses, personalised mentoring, and training schemes for early-career researchers and university staff.

To ensure lasting impact, two regional hubs will be established: one in Buenos Aires, serving the Southern Cone, and one in Cuenca, serving the Andean region. These centres will provide infrastructure, logistical support and local coordination during and beyond the project’s lifetime.

The University of Bologna, which coordinates the project, has been active in Argentina since 1998, with a permanent site in Buenos Aires – a sign of its long-term commitment to academic collaboration between Italy and Latin America.

Over 60 universities from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay are also involved in the project.