Sapienza has reinforced its commitment to academic solidarity and international cooperation by approving a number of significant projects at yesterday's (Thursday, April 9) Academic Senate meeting. These initiatives consolidate Sapienza's position as a facilitator of dialogue and peace within the global academic community, while also reaffirming its commitment to serving society as an educational institution.

The Academic Senate has approved Sapienza's Solidarity Call for Research and Teaching – Visiting Professors 2026, which provides for a total allocation of €252,000 for 28 grants of €9,000 each. It is aimed at visiting professors from countries facing economic or social crises, with a particular focus on the Weast Asia regions. For the 2026 call, the Academic Senate has decided to include Iran among the eligible and priority countries in West Asia, in view of the highly critical nature of the international context.

Participation in the Scholar Rescue Fund (SRF) programme has also been approved. Under this initiative, two fellowships totalling €112,000 will be awarded to scholars in danger due to conflict, persecution or political instability in their countries of origin. Sapienza will fund half of this amount. The programme provides protection for researchers and lecturers facing difficulties, demonstrating a tangible commitment to safeguarding academic freedom and the right to higher education while enriching the academic environment with diverse skills and perspectives.

At the same meeting, the establishment of two research posts to accommodate researchers from high-risk environments was approved as part of the collaboration with Scholars at Risk International (SAR). The total cost to Sapienza was €70,000. These positions offer young researchers a unique opportunity to develop their skills and contribute to scientific progress, while also giving Sapienza the chance to benefit from new ideas and innovative methodological approaches.

Please read the Italian version of this page for more information.