Italy’s Lazio region has a vibrant economy. This is also thanks to its universities

Source: Pexels

As previously mentioned on this blog, Rome is one of the innovation hubs in the Mediterranean area. In addition to being the capital of Italy, Rome is also the capital of Lazio, one of the country’s regions. Contrary to what one might think, given Rome’s remarkable innovation ecosystem, the metropolis is not the only place with a vibrant economy in the region. Lazio isn’t just about Rome.

Other areas rich in cultural attractions and beautiful landscapes, such as Viterbo and Latina, boast remarkably vibrant economies contributing to Lazio’s status as one of Italy’s most dynamic regions, with a particularly advanced service sector, a large number of high-tech manufacturing companies. Sixteen percent of the workforce is employed by big companies, compared to the national average of 10%.

Source: Pixabay

This wouldn’t be possible without the region’s universities, which train the future highly qualified professionals for Lazio’s knowledge economy. First and foremost is La Sapienza University of Rome, which, with 100,000 students, is Italy’s largest higher education institution. It has campuses in Latina and Rieti, in addition to its main campus in Rome. Other vital universities, albeit smaller, are also worth mentioning, such as the University of Tuscia and the University of Cassino and Southern Lazio.

The University of Tuscia is located in Viterbo, an ancient medieval city rich in history. Relatively young, the institution is highly regarded for its Department of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences — the Viterbo area is renowned for its agricultural production, especially olive oil and hazelnuts — and its Department of Economics, Engineering, Society, and Business, a leader in strategic sectors such as cultural heritage preservation.

In an era of lifelong learning, the University of Tuscia offers programs not only for young students, but also for the working population in the area. One example is the educational project, “Towards Green Horizon,” carried out by CREA (the Research Center for Cereal and Industrial Crops) in collaboration with the university.

Source: Pixabay

The province of Latina is highly regarded for its agricultural businesses. At the same time, however, it is part of Lazio’s pharmaceutical cluster, alongside Rome and Frosinone. La Sapienza University’s Cersites Center (Center for Research and Services for Technological and Sustainable Innovation) is based in Latina.

Interacting with the business world is very important at Polo Cersites. For example, a technical seminar on thermo-analytical and rheological characterization of polymer and composite materials is being held there today. Organized by NETZSCH, a German company and a European leader in analysis and testing, in collaboration with La Sapienza University, the seminar focuses on the theoretical fundamentals and practical applications of techniques essential to the materials industry, including: DSC, TGA, TMA, DMA, and rheometry. According to NETZSCH’s Italian branch office manager, Latina’s innovation ecosystem is one of the most dynamic in central Italy. Initiatives such as this seminar can raise its national profile.