The Italian language is a vital part of the experience at UWC Adriatic. Over the course of their two years at our College, students learn to speak Italian, weaving it into their daily lives and using it as a key to engage with the local community.
At a time in history when dialogue is more essential than ever, students from UWC Adriatic brought a powerful and heartfelt testimony to Rome about the role of Italian as a bridge between cultures and peoples.
The occasion was the fifth edition of the General Assembly of the Italian Language in the World, titled “Towards a Global Community of Italophony”, in preparation for the upcoming International Conference of Italophony, scheduled to take place between October and November.
Our students, accompanied by Secretary General Valentina Bach and President Roberto Antonione, took part in the event at MAXXI – National Museum of 21st Century Arts, which was also attended by Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani. Five of them — from Afghanistan, Israel, Palestine, Russia, and Ukraine — shared their personal stories and reflected on how learning Italian has enabled them to build genuine relationships despite the cultural divides and geopolitical conflicts in their countries of origin.
“Here in Italy, I discovered that our shared commitment to learning and our passion for the Italian language created an unexpected bridge – a bond of understanding and empathy.”
— Ashraf (UWC Adriatic 2024–26)
“Italian is not just a language; it’s a melody that taught us how to communicate. It helped us realise that beyond our origins, we are simply young people with common dreams, hopes, and desires.”
— Arsenii (UWC Adriatic 2024–26)
Among them, Madina (UWC Adriatic 2023–25) added:
“Taking part in the Italophony event in Rome was an incredible opportunity. Italian is a tool for peace, empathy, and unity. Sharing my story reminded me how deeply personal experiences can touch hearts and carry the hope of a better world.”
The General Assembly provided a valuable space for reflection on the future of the Italian language worldwide and its potential as a vehicle for dialogue, solidarity, and cooperation.
Through the powerful stories of its students, our College continues to show that another kind of global language is possible — one built on listening, openness, and a shared belief in the future.
Watch the testimonies of our students from minute 15.31
Ashraf (UWC Adriatic 2024-26)
Arsenii (UWC Adriatic 2024-26)
Reflecting on the event, Madina (UWC Adriatic 2023–25) shared with us;
The General Assembly provided a valuable space for reflection on the future of the Italian language worldwide and its potential as a vehicle for dialogue, solidarity, and cooperation.
