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 area. This is the so-called Third Mission, which aims to generate a real impact on society.
The University for Foreigners of Perugia is a specialist university born from a cultural project deeply rooted in the Umbrian region, but with a strong international focus: to promote the teaching of the Italian language, culture, and civilization in all their forms.
Today, the University for Foreigners continues to nurture this “virtuous dualism,” viewing 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 brings local identity and excellence beyond borders, sharing them with a global audience.
This vision of the Third Mission goes beyond the simple application of teaching and research outcomes: 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 the more current themes of sustainability and inclusion, the University for Foreigners continues to be a cultural reference point, both locally and internationally.
Public engagement is all the activities through which the University opens up to society, involving citizens, schools, associations, businesses, institutions, and the local area. It means engaging in dialogue and collaborating with the public, not just to share knowledge, but to listen, share, respond to social needs, and build solutions together. In this area, the Public Engagement of the University for Foreigners of Perugia has been ahead of its formal structuring as the third mission by decades; for about forty years, in fact, the University has organized a wide range of cultural and scientific events that are also open to the public, as well as socially-oriented projects carried out, even 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 completed "traditional" studies but wish to keep learning, update their knowledge, or specialize further. It is aimed at adults, whether employed or unemployed, and at anyone who wants to enhance or certify their skills throughout their lives.
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 tackle 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 serves as a dynamic and open point of reference, capable of putting knowledge at the service of the region 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 awareness and enjoyment of its historical, architectural, artistic, and archival assets, strengthening the connection with the local area and helping to convey the value of culture as a common good and a tool for collective growth.