SDG 17 – Partnerships for the goals

Università IULM has direct involvement and input into national government and regional non-government organisations SDG policy development, identifying problems and challenges, developing policies and strategies, modelling likely futures with and without interventions, monitoring and reporting on interventions, and enabling adaptive management.

This engagement is formally anchored in the Strategic Plan 2025–2027, which identifies partnerships, sustainability, inclusion and global citizenship as key elements of the University's institutional development.

Collaboration with national and international government and intergovernmental organisations

• FAO – Strategic Partnership for Sustainability Communication
  IULM has established a strategic partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to develop activities at the intersection of sustainability, food systems, communication and education. The collaboration connects IULM's academic expertise with international policy priorities through research, training, strategic communication and public outreach, including activities within the World Food Forum.
  In 2025, the partnership continued through initiatives addressing food security, food waste, sustainable food systems and responsible consumption, creating opportunities for dialogue between academia, international institutions and society around the implementation of the SDGs.
• UNHCR and the Ministry of University and Research (MUR)
  IULM endorsed the UNHCR “Manifesto for Inclusive Universities”, coordinated by the Ministry of University and Research (MUR) and the UN Refugee Agency, contributing to national guidelines on inclusion and access to higher education for refugees and asylum seekers.
• UNESCO – Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development
  By joining the UNESCO Manifesto for the Decade of Ocean Science, IULM promotes ocean literacy and marine sustainability across the Italian higher education system, contributing to SDG 14 and reinforcing environmental awareness through education and communication.
• Ministry of Education and Merit – Arabic Language Education in Italy
  In 2025, IULM continued its collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Merit and Qatar Foundation International (QFI) through the Roundtables on Arabic Language Education in Italy. The initiative brings together institutional and educational stakeholders to discuss language education, linguistic inclusion and intercultural dialogue, contributing to the development of approaches and policy pathways for multilingual education in Italy.
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI)
  IULM collaborates with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) through initiatives connecting higher education, international cooperation and public policy. In particular, the University has participated in the MAECI call for 69 curricular internships, strengthening the connection between university education and Italy's international cooperation and diplomatic network.
• Ministry and PNRR-funded research initiatives
  IULM participates in national policy and innovation programmes supported by the Italian Government and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). An example is the PNRR-funded research project on robots and emotional intelligence, which connects university research and public investment priorities in technological innovation and human-centred development.
• RUS and RuniPace Networks
  IULM is a member of both the RUS – Rete delle Università per lo Sviluppo Sostenibile and RuniPace – Italian University Network for Peace, coordinated by the Conference of Italian University Rectors (CRUI). Through these networks, IULM contributes to national university-level discussions and collaborative initiatives concerning sustainability governance, peace education and SDG implementation.
• Italian Carabinieri Command (Arma dei Carabinieri)
  In January 2024, IULM formalised a national agreement with the Arma dei Carabinieri to deliver joint training and seminars on institutional communication, public information and crisis management. The continuing agreement reinforces collaboration between higher education and a national public institution in areas related to public communication, institutional trust and responsible governance.

Collaboration with regional and local government

• Municipality of Milan – Gender and Public Policy
  IULM has collaborated with the Municipality of Milan on issues related to gender equality and public policy, including the initiative “Genere e politiche pubbliche a Milano”. The initiative creates a dialogue between academic expertise and local government on gender-sensitive approaches to public policy.
• Municipality of Milan – Protocol against violence
  IULM participated in the Protocol promoted by the Municipality of Milan against violence, strengthening cooperation between the University and local public institutions on prevention, awareness and action against gender-based violence.
• Regional and international cooperation – Peru
  IULM has also developed institutional cooperation involving Regione Lombardia and international partners, including the initiative IULM in Peru, connecting academic activities with international cooperation and regional institutional engagement.

Collaboration with non-governmental and civil-society organisations

• Moleskine Foundation – Creative Education and Social Innovation
  IULM collaborates with the Moleskine Foundation on educational activities promoting creativity, social innovation and inclusion, connecting university education with the work of an international civil-society organisation.
• Transfusiasm – Partnership with civil society
  In 2025, IULM participated in Transfusiasm, an initiative involving civil-society partners and addressing issues of inclusion, participation and social engagement. The collaboration provides an additional example of IULM working with non-governmental actors to address social challenges.
• SONG ETS – Monitoring and Evaluation of Power2Play
  In 2025, IULM collaborated with SONG ETS, a non-governmental organisation, through a scientific collaboration agreement to monitor and evaluate the Power2Play project, which addresses educational poverty and promotes wellbeing, participation and inclusion in Milanese primary schools. The project involved more than 300 children and combined music and sport-based activities focusing on self-expression, collaboration, respect for rules and inclusion, including the participation of children with disabilities and their families.
  IULM conducted a systematic evaluation of the project's initial educational and relational outcomes through focus groups with educators and questionnaires administered to pupils, also examining cultural consumption and participation practices among the children and their families. The collaboration demonstrates IULM's contribution to the monitoring and evaluation of a civil-society intervention, generating evidence that can inform the development and improvement of initiatives addressing educational inequality, inclusion and wellbeing
• IULM for Solidarity
  Through IULM for Solidarity, the University engages with civil-society and non-profit organisations in initiatives aimed at supporting communities and promoting social responsibility.

Through its continuing collaboration with UN agencies, ministries, national and local public institutions, regional authorities, university networks, foundations and civil-society organisations, Università IULM contributes to the development and implementation of approaches to the Sustainable Development Goals.

These partnerships connect academic expertise, institutional policy priorities, education, research and community engagement, enabling IULM to contribute to policy dialogue and to the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda at national, regional and international levels.

Università IULM initiates and participates in cross-sectoral dialogue about the SDGs, bringing together government representatives, international organisations, businesses, NGOs, and civil society through structured forums, conferences, and collaborative projects.

This mission is embedded in the Strategic Plan 2025–2027, which identifies “Dialogue and Partnerships for the Common Good” as a strategic pillar of the University’s contribution to the UN 2030 Agenda.

International and global dialogue

At the international level, IULM uses its partnerships with international organisations and institutions to create dialogue between academia, policymakers, practitioners and civil society on sustainability and the SDGs.

• IULM–FAO Strategic Partnership
  IULM's strategic partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) provides an established framework for cross-sectoral dialogue on food security, sustainable food systems, food waste, responsible consumption and sustainability communication. In 2025, the collaboration generated several activities involving academic experts, FAO representatives, students, institutional stakeholders and the wider public. These included initiatives dedicated to food waste and food security, a roundtable on sustainable and ethical food choices, and activities connected with the World Food Forum.
  The partnership brings together an international intergovernmental organisation, higher education, experts and public audiences, creating a structured space for dialogue around the implementation of the SDGs.
• Arabic Language Education in Italy – Ministry of Education and Merit and Qatar Foundation International
  In 2025, IULM continued to host the Roundtables on Arabic Language Education in Italy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Merit and Qatar Foundation International. The roundtables brought together institutional representatives, educators and cultural stakeholders to discuss linguistic inclusion, multilingual education and intercultural dialogue, creating a cross-sectoral forum connecting government, education and civil society.
• International partnerships and SDG dialogue
  Through its international partnerships, research centres and educational activities, IULM creates opportunities for interaction between universities, international organisations, public institutions, businesses and non-governmental organisations, using communication, culture and education as tools for advancing sustainability and the SDGs.

National and multi-stakeholder dialogue

At national level, IULM acts as a platform for dialogue between public institutions, businesses, NGOs, researchers, students and other stakeholders, particularly around sustainability, inclusion, innovation and social responsibility.

• FAO–IULM dialogue on food sustainability
  The 2025 FAO activities provided a concrete multi-stakeholder forum involving international institutions, academics, practitioners and the public. Topics included food security, food waste, sustainable consumption and the role of communication in encouraging more responsible behaviours.
• Sustainability, responsible consumption and public engagement
  In 2025, IULM organised and hosted public-facing initiatives bringing together different sectors around sustainability challenges. These activities included discussions involving academic experts, institutional partners, businesses and civil-society actors, allowing different perspectives to be exchanged and translated into awareness-raising and educational activities.
• IULM and national institutional networks
  Through its participation in RUS – Rete delle Università per lo Sviluppo Sostenibile and RuniPace – Italian University Network for Peace, IULM contributes to collaborative national forums involving universities and other stakeholders on sustainability, peace, social responsibility and the implementation of the SDGs.

Local and community dialogue

At the local level, IULM strengthens dialogue between the University, the Municipality of Milan, civil-society organisations, businesses and the local community.

• IULM for the City
  Through IULM for the City, the University opens its academic and cultural expertise to the wider community through public lectures, events and initiatives addressing issues of social relevance. The programme creates opportunities for direct interaction between academics, citizens, institutions and external stakeholders, including topics connected with sustainability, inclusion, gender equality and social development.
• Municipality of Milan – Gender and public policy
  IULM has contributed to dialogue with the Municipality of Milan on gender, public policy and equality, bringing academic perspectives into discussions involving public institutions and stakeholders. The initiative “Genere e politiche pubbliche a Milano” illustrates the University's role as a platform connecting academic knowledge with local policy discussions.
• Municipality of Milan – Protocol against violence
  IULM also participated in the protocol promoted by the Municipality of Milan against violence, strengthening dialogue between the University and local public institutions around prevention, gender equality, awareness and social responsibility.
• Civil-society partnerships
  Through initiatives involving organisations such as the Moleskine Foundation and other non-profit partners, IULM creates opportunities for students, staff, external organisations and local communities to engage directly with sustainability and social challenges.

Through its multi-level engagement — international, national and local — Università IULM provides a platform for dialogue among government institutions, international organisations, businesses, NGOs, academia and civil society.

The University's 2025 activities demonstrate that this dialogue is not limited to individual events, but is supported by continuing institutional partnerships and recurring initiatives that connect academic knowledge, public policy, business perspectives and community engagement in support of the UN 2030 Agenda and SDG 17.

Università IULM participates in international collaboration on gathering and measuring data for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through interdisciplinary research, international scientific networks and collaborative projects involving universities, research institutions, public organisations and industry stakeholders.

The University contributes to the collection, analysis, comparison and interpretation of quantitative and qualitative data addressing sustainable development challenges, including environmental sustainability, gender equality, social inclusion, decent work, digital transformation and cultural heritage.

International cooperation is supported by specialised research centres whose scientific committees include scholars and representatives of institutions from different countries. These structures facilitate the exchange of research methodologies, comparative approaches and scientific expertise, creating opportunities for joint research and the development of evidence relevant to measuring progress towards the SDGs.

1. International scientific collaboration through research centres

COMAR – Research Centre on Communication and Maritime Tourism – SDG 14

COMAR promotes scientific research, statistical analysis and evidence-based approaches to sustainable boating and nautical tourism.

The Centre addresses the environmental, social and economic dimensions of maritime tourism, with the objective of supporting the sector's transition towards more responsible and sustainable models of development.

Its scientific committee includes representatives of the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina and the University of Seville (Spain), alongside Italian academic institutions and maritime-industry stakeholders.

This international composition provides a framework for comparing approaches to sustainable maritime tourism, exchanging statistical methodologies and developing research cooperation on environmental sustainability and sectoral innovation.

COMAR's activities are relevant to SDG 14 (Life Below Water), while also contributing to SDG 8, SDG 11 and SDG 17.

Percepta – Research Centre for Consciousness and Perception in Humans, Robots and AI – SDG 9

Percepta investigates human and artificial perception, cognition and consciousness within a human-centred computing framework.

Its research encompasses human behaviour, visual and spatial perception, artificial intelligence, biomedical image analysis and the effects of AI on cognitive systems and learning processes.

The Centre's scientific committee includes scholars affiliated with Bournemouth University, Imperial College London, the University of Wollongong, the University of Zurich and KU Eichstätt-Ingolstadt.

These international academic connections provide opportunities for the exchange of experimental methodologies, analytical techniques and approaches to cognitive and technological assessment.

Percepta also promotes collaboration between academia and industry through the development of Proofs of Concept (PoCs) and experimental prototypes, supporting the application of research findings to practical technological challenges.

Its research is relevant to SDG 9, particularly responsible innovation and the development of human-centred technologies.

CERC – Centre for Employee Relations and Communication – SDG 8

CERC conducts research on employee relations, organisational communication and workplace dynamics.

Its scientific committee includes representatives of the University of South Carolina, University of Vienna, Aarhus University and University of Georgia.

This international academic network provides a foundation for comparative research into organisational practices, employee communication and workplace relationships.

The Centre's activities support the exchange of research approaches and methodologies relevant to decent work, organisational wellbeing and sustainable employment practices.

Dedalus – New Media and Digital Culture Research Center – SDG 9

Dedalus investigates emerging technologies and their implications for media, communication and cultural production, including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and immersive experiences.

Its scientific committee includes expertise associated with international organisations such as ZKM, the Saudi Arabian Museum Commission and Baltan Laboratories.

The Centre explicitly identifies internationalisation, research partnerships, scientific publishing and the involvement of early-career researchers among its strategic priorities.

Through these activities, Dedalus provides a framework for international knowledge exchange and comparative research on technological transformation and digital innovation.

Its activities are relevant to SDG 9 and the broader development of responsible technological systems.

Centro di Ricerca Cultura e Scienza della Sostenibilità (CRCS) – SDG 11, SDG 16 and SDG 17

Established in 2023 and directed by Professor Massimo De Giuseppe, the Centro di Ricerca Cultura e Scienza della Sostenibilità (CRCS) promotes interdisciplinary research connecting culture, sustainability, innovation and social transformation.

The Centre was established in connection with IULM's participation in EIT Culture & Creativity, a European Knowledge and Innovation Community supporting cooperation and innovation across the cultural and creative sectors.

CRCS supports international research activities, including cooperation with researchers associated with Ritsumeikan University and Hiroshima University in Japan.

Its research approaches combine historical investigation, cultural analysis, oral history and community-based documentation.

These methodologies contribute to the collection and interpretation of qualitative evidence concerning cultural heritage, collective memory, community identity and sustainability.

CRCS provides an interdisciplinary framework for exchanging research methodologies and developing comparative approaches to cultural and social sustainability.

Digital Sustainability Hub (DSH) – SDG 9, SDG 12 and SDG 17

On 9 October 2025, Università IULM announced the establishment of the Digital Sustainability Hub (DSH), coordinated by Professor Andrea Carignani.

The Hub promotes an integrated understanding of digital sustainability as an environmental, economic, social and cultural challenge, extending beyond technological efficiency to encompass the design, governance and everyday use of digital systems.

Its activities are organised around three complementary dimensions:

• Understanding: investigating the environmental, economic and social impacts of digital technologies.
• Awareness: developing educational and awareness initiatives for students, professionals and citizens.
• Action: promoting projects and partnerships supporting the adoption of responsible and sustainable digital practices.

The Hub provides an institutional framework for interdisciplinary research and cooperation with businesses and institutions on digital sustainability.

Its activities support the development of approaches to assessing the sustainability of digital systems, combining digital ecology, data ethics, responsible innovation and social responsibility.

Through its research and collaborative activities, the DSH contributes to the development and exchange of methodologies relevant to evaluating the environmental and social impacts of digital transformation.

2. Research projects contributing to SDG-related data gathering and measurement

Alongside its research centres, Università IULM develops research projects that apply quantitative, qualitative and interdisciplinary methodologies to sustainability-related challenges.

These initiatives contribute to the development of structured datasets, analytical approaches, comparative evidence and assessment methodologies relevant to the SDGs.

SDG 9 & SDG 12 – Digital Sustainability Hub Research Project

This research initiative complements the institutional activities of the Digital Sustainability Hub by addressing the environmental, economic and social dimensions of digital transformation.

It contributes to interdisciplinary approaches for examining how digital technologies are designed, governed and used, with particular attention to responsible innovation and sustainable digital practices.

The project's relevance to SDG measurement lies in its focus on the assessment of digital sustainability, including the identification of factors and methodologies that can support the evaluation of digital systems and their impacts.

SDG 5 & SDG 16 – SAFE – Support and Awareness for Empowerment

The SAFE research project develops a data-driven approach to understanding and preventing gender-based violence, focusing on the relationships between communication, cultural representations and patterns of behaviour.

The project examines the informational and relational dimensions of gender-based violence through the analysis of media communication.

Its methodological contribution includes:

• Building a structured database enriched with metadata and based on sampled sources selected according to data-quality standards.
• Transforming qualitative communication data into measurable indicators capable of identifying linguistic patterns, behavioural signals and potential escalation dynamics.
• Analysing semantic changes over time, supporting a more systematic understanding of how gender-based violence is represented and discussed.
• Developing research-based resources intended to support prevention, awareness and relational education.

SAFE contributes to the development of measurement methodologies relevant to gender equality, prevention and institutional responses to violence.

SDG 5 – Human Lab: Data Science and Gender-Based Violence

IULM's Human Lab contributes to research on gender inequality through the application of statistical analysis and data science to gender-based violence and socioeconomic disparities.

In September 2025, research developed within the Human Lab was presented at the Venice Film Festival during the discussion Gender Gap and Data: Designing Tomorrow's Gender Equality Today.

The initiative brought together expertise in statistics, law, education and communication to examine how data can inform the design of more effective gender-equality policies.

The research contributes to the interpretation of gender-related indicators and to the exchange of evidence-based approaches to inequality and discrimination.

SDG 8, SDG 9 & SDG 12 – Innovative SMEs and Cross-Sectoral Collaborations for Decarbonisation and Ecological Transition in the Cultural Sectors

This research examines the role of innovative small and medium-sized enterprises, startups and cross-sectoral collaborations in the ecological transition of the cultural, creative and tourism sectors.

The research focuses particularly on museums, live performance organisations and festivals.

Its principal methodological contribution is the construction of an original database of enterprises operating in these sectors, drawing on the Italian Register of Innovative Enterprises.

The project identifies businesses explicitly oriented towards environmental sustainability and decarbonisation and conducts quantitative and qualitative analyses of:

• Enterprise characteristics and business models.
• Sustainability-oriented innovations.
• Solutions supporting ecological transition.
• Organisational and economic conditions influencing the adoption of sustainable practices.

The resulting evidence supports the assessment of green innovation in cultural and creative industries and provides research findings relevant to sustainable business development and environmental transition.

SDG 10 – Artificial Intelligence and Corporate Storytelling for Migrant Inclusion

This interdisciplinary research project explores how artificial intelligence and corporate storytelling can support migrant inclusion in business environments.

The project combines cultural and literary analysis with conversational AI technologies to identify potential biases, examine narratives of exclusion and integration, and develop tools supporting intercultural communication.

During its first research year, the project developed an experimental conversational chatbot designed to function as a cultural navigator in corporate and multinational environments.

The research incorporates international good practices and develops an analytical framework for understanding the relationships between language, cultural representation and inclusion.

Its contribution to SDG-related evidence lies primarily in the qualitative analysis of exclusion, bias and intercultural communication, providing a foundation for the development of tools supporting inclusive workplaces.

SDG 8 & SDG 11 – Study of Training Needs in the Meeting Industry – Federcongressi and ENIT

This applied research project examines training needs and professional competencies within the meeting industry.

Developed in cooperation with sectoral stakeholders, the initiative contributes to the identification of skills and professional development requirements in a strategically important segment of the tourism economy.

The research provides evidence that can inform training programmes, workforce development and the adaptation of professional competencies to changing sectoral needs.

Its findings are relevant to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), particularly in relation to sustainable tourism and professional skills development.

3. International comparative research and cultural data collection

SDG 11, SDG 16 & SDG 17 – Memoria della Terra – International Cultural Heritage Research in Peru

The Memoria della Terra project represents a concrete example of international research involving the documentation and interpretation of cultural and community-based evidence.

Developed in the Sierra Ancash region of Peru, the initiative combines oral history, community archaeology and audiovisual documentation to preserve and study local heritage.

The project involves cooperation with institutional and cultural partners, including the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Museo delle Culture di Milano, alongside IULM research facilities.

Its principal contributions include:

• Collecting oral testimonies and documenting community knowledge.
• Developing qualitative research resources concerning local history, memory and cultural heritage.
• Producing audiovisual documentation supporting the preservation and dissemination of community-based evidence.
• Connecting research across geographical and institutional contexts, facilitating knowledge exchange on cultural sustainability and heritage protection.

Through these activities, IULM contributes to the development of qualitative research resources relevant to cultural heritage, local communities and sustainable development.

5. Contribution to international SDG data gathering and measurement

Together, these research centres and projects demonstrate Università IULM's contribution to the collection, organisation, analysis and interpretation of data relevant to sustainable development.

The University's activities encompass several complementary approaches:

• International scientific networks: research centres involving scholars and institutions from different countries, providing frameworks for scientific cooperation and methodological exchange.
• Quantitative measurement: statistical analysis, structured datasets and indicators relating to social, economic and environmental challenges.
• Qualitative measurement: interviews, cultural analysis, media analysis, oral histories and systematic interpretation of social phenomena.
• Comparative research: examination of sustainability challenges across different geographical, institutional and cultural contexts.
• Development of assessment methodologies: models, indicators and analytical tools supporting the evaluation of sustainability-related phenomena.
• Cross-sectoral collaboration: research cooperation connecting academia with businesses, public institutions and cultural organisations.

Through its international scientific networks, the Centro di Ricerca Cultura e Scienza della Sostenibilità (CRCS), the Digital Sustainability Hub (DSH) and its interdisciplinary research projects, Università IULM strengthens the exchange of expertise and contributes to the development of evidence and methodologies relevant to measuring progress towards the SDGs.

These activities support the objectives of SDG 17, particularly international scientific cooperation, data-informed decision-making and knowledge exchange on sustainable development.

Università IULM, through international collaboration and interdisciplinary research, reviews comparative approaches and contributes to the development of international best practice on tackling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The University promotes the exchange of scientific knowledge, research methodologies and evidence-based approaches through its specialised research centres, international academic networks and collaborative research projects. These activities connect academic research with businesses, public institutions, cultural organisations and civil society, supporting the identification and development of transferable models, innovative solutions and best practices addressing sustainable development challenges.

1. Research centres contributing to SDG best practices

IULM's research centres provide institutional frameworks for comparing approaches, sharing expertise, developing innovative methodologies and strengthening collaboration across disciplines and geographical contexts.

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being

Behavior & Brain Lab applies neuroscientific and psychophysiological methods to study human responses to communication, including attention, emotion, perception and decision-making. Its research methodologies can inform evidence-based approaches to health communication, wellbeing and behavioural change, supporting the exchange of practices between academia and professional stakeholders.

SDG 4 – Quality Education

Centro Euresis focuses on the diagnosis, research and intervention relating to specific learning disorders. Its activities contribute to the development and dissemination of approaches to inclusive education, helping educational institutions identify and respond to different learning needs.

SDG 5 – Gender Equality

Digital Gender Hub promotes research and dialogue on gender representation, communication and equality in digital environments. Its activities contribute to identifying inequalities and examining approaches to more inclusive organisational cultures and communication practices.

SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth

CIMASC – Centre for International Marketing and Sales Communication conducts research on marketing, consumer behaviour and international markets, contributing to the development of approaches to responsible business practices and sustainable economic innovation.

CERC – Centre for Employee Relations and Communication examines organisational communication, employee relations and workplace dynamics. Its research provides a basis for comparing approaches to employee engagement, responsible management and organisational wellbeing.

SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

CRiSiCo – Research Centre on Complex Systems investigates complex systems and the relationships between human beings, technologies and contemporary social transformations. Its interdisciplinary approach contributes to research on innovation, resilience and the responsible development of technological systems.

Dedalus – New Media and Digital Culture Research Center investigates emerging technologies and their implications for media, communication and cultural production, including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and immersive experiences.

The Centre promotes scientific research, publishing activities, participation in competitive research calls and the involvement of early-career researchers. Particular emphasis is placed on developing partnerships and internationalisation, creating opportunities to compare approaches to technological innovation across academic, cultural and professional contexts.

Through these activities, Dedalus aims to contribute to the development and exchange of research practices addressing the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation.

Percepta – Research Centre for Consciousness and Perception in Humans, Robots and AI investigates human and artificial perception, cognition and consciousness within a human-centred computing framework.

Its research addresses human behaviour, visual and spatial perception, artificial consciousness, biomedical image analysis and the effects of artificial intelligence on cognitive systems and learning processes.

Percepta places particular emphasis on collaboration between academia and industry, bringing together academic and industrial expertise within its scientific committee.

Its objectives include developing Proofs of Concept (PoCs) and experimental prototypes, encouraging knowledge and technology transfer and facilitating the application of research findings to practical challenges.

The Centre's international scientific network provides opportunities for comparative research and the exchange of approaches to responsible, human-centred technological innovation.

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

Human Lab – Research Centre for Communication in the Humanities develops interdisciplinary research on the communication of humanistic knowledge, cultural representation and social phenomena.

Its activities support the examination of approaches to accessibility, inclusion and the communication of complex social issues, contributing to research relevant to reducing inequalities.

SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities

Centro di Ricerca Cultura e Scienza della Sostenibilità (CRCS) promotes interdisciplinary research connecting culture, environmental and social sustainability, memory and innovation.

Through international research and cultural cooperation, the Centre supports the exchange of methodologies for studying cultural heritage, community identity and sustainable development.

Center for Visual Studies examines visual culture and representation, contributing perspectives relevant to cultural heritage, public space and the interpretation of social and urban transformations.

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production

IULM Wine Institute promotes research and knowledge exchange relating to the wine sector, including its economic, cultural and communication dimensions.

Its interdisciplinary activities provide opportunities to examine responsible consumption, sustainability communication and innovation within the food and wine industries.

SDG 13 – Climate Action

CIMASC and CRCS contribute complementary perspectives on sustainability-related behaviour, communication and cultural transformation.

Their research provides a foundation for examining how communication strategies, consumer behaviour and cultural practices can support environmental awareness and sustainable transitions.

SDG 14 – Life Below Water

COMAR – Research Centre on Communication and Maritime Tourism is dedicated to research and innovation in boating and sustainable nautical tourism, responding to the need to transform the maritime tourism sector through more innovative, responsible and environmentally sustainable approaches.

Through scientific research, statistical analysis and evidence-based strategies, COMAR aims to develop operational tools and advanced knowledge supporting a model of maritime tourism that balances environmental protection, social considerations and economic development.

The Centre seeks to become a national and international reference point for research and innovation in sustainable boating and nautical tourism.

Its scientific committee includes academic expertise from Italy and international institutions, including the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina and the University of Seville, alongside representatives of the maritime industry.

This combination of international academic expertise and sectoral knowledge creates a framework for comparing approaches to sustainable nautical tourism, sharing research methodologies and developing evidence-based practices that can inform the sector's ecological transition.

COMAR's activities are particularly relevant to SDG 14, while also contributing to SDG 8, SDG 11 and SDG 17.

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Journalism in the Digital Age investigates the transformation of journalism, digital information, emerging technologies and media ethics.

Its research contributes to understanding challenges affecting information quality, public trust and responsible communication.

Osservatorio sulla Comunicazione Pubblica examines public communication, institutional relationships and digital transformation.

Its activities provide a framework for analysing and comparing communication practices relevant to institutional transparency, public engagement and effective governance.

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals

International Center for Research on Collaborative Translation (CeRC-T) promotes research into collaborative translation, supporting the exchange of knowledge and methodologies across languages, cultures and academic contexts.

Osservatorio Retail Brand Communication investigates communication and innovation in retail and branding, providing opportunities for knowledge exchange between academia and industry.

2. Research projects contributing to comparative approaches and SDG best practices

Alongside its research centres, Università IULM develops research projects that examine specific sustainability challenges and contribute methodologies, findings and practical approaches that can inform further research and institutional or professional practice.

SDG 5 & SDG 16 – SAFE – Support and Awareness for Empowerment

The SAFE project develops a research-based approach to the understanding and prevention of gender-based violence.

By combining the systematic analysis of communication with structured data collection, the project seeks to identify recurring linguistic patterns, representations and potential indicators of harmful relational dynamics.

Its methodological contribution lies in connecting qualitative communication analysis with structured data and measurable indicators, providing an approach that may inform further research and prevention initiatives.

The project contributes to the identification of evidence-based practices relevant to gender equality, awareness and the prevention of violence.

SDG 8, SDG 9 & SDG 12 – Innovative SMEs and Cross-Sectoral Collaborations for Decarbonisation and Ecological Transition in the Cultural Sectors

This research examines the contribution of innovative enterprises and cross-sectoral cooperation to decarbonisation and ecological transition in cultural, creative and tourism-related industries.

The project develops an original database of innovative enterprises and analyses their characteristics, sustainability-oriented business models and approaches to environmental innovation.

By examining different organisational solutions and business practices, the research provides a basis for identifying and comparing approaches to sustainable innovation.

Its findings may support the development of transferable practices for cultural and creative organisations seeking to reduce environmental impacts and adopt more sustainable business models.

SDG 9 & SDG 12 – Digital Sustainability Hub Research Project

This research initiative addresses digital sustainability through an interdisciplinary perspective encompassing environmental, economic, social and cultural considerations.

It supports the development of approaches to understanding the impacts of digital technologies and promoting more responsible models of digital innovation.

The project complements the activities of the Digital Sustainability Hub, which seeks to connect academic research, businesses and institutions around sustainable digital practices.

Its contribution to SDG best practice lies in the development and exchange of approaches to responsible technology design, governance and use.

SDG 10 – Artificial Intelligence and Corporate Storytelling for Migrant Inclusion

This interdisciplinary project investigates the potential of artificial intelligence and corporate storytelling to support migrant inclusion in organisational environments.

It combines cultural and linguistic analysis with conversational AI technologies to examine exclusion, representation and intercultural communication.

The development of an experimental conversational chatbot provides an opportunity to explore practical approaches to supporting intercultural understanding in corporate and multinational settings.

By considering international good practices and applying interdisciplinary research methods, the project contributes to the development of approaches that may be adapted to more inclusive workplace environments.

SDG 8 & SDG 11 – Study of Training Needs in the Meeting Industry – Federcongressi and ENIT

This applied research project examines professional competencies and training needs in the meeting industry.

Developed in cooperation with sectoral stakeholders, the research identifies emerging skills requirements and provides evidence relevant to workforce development and professional education.

The findings can inform the design of training approaches responsive to changing industry requirements and contribute to the exchange of practices supporting sustainable economic development in tourism and events.

SDG 11, SDG 16 & SDG 17 – Memoria della Terra – International Cultural Heritage Research in Peru

The Memoria della Terra initiative involves international research on community archaeology, oral history and cultural heritage in the Sierra Ancash region of Peru.

The project combines historical research, audiovisual documentation and community-based approaches to preserving local knowledge and cultural memory.

Its international and interdisciplinary character supports the exchange of research methodologies and approaches to heritage documentation.

The project provides an example of how community participation, cultural research and international cooperation can contribute to practices relevant to the preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage.

SDG 5 – Human Lab: Data Science and Gender-Based Violence

Research developed within IULM's Human Lab examines gender inequality and gender-based violence through statistical analysis and interdisciplinary approaches.

In September 2025, the research was discussed during the Venice Film Festival in the event Gender Gap and Data: Designing Tomorrow's Gender Equality Today.

The discussion brought together expertise in statistics, law, education and communication to examine the relationship between data, gender inequality and public policy.

The initiative contributed to the dissemination and interdisciplinary discussion of evidence-based approaches to gender equality and the prevention of discrimination.

3. Contribution to international best practice on the SDGs

Through its research centres and collaborative projects, Università IULM supports the review of comparative approaches and the development of knowledge relevant to international best practice in sustainable development.

Its activities contribute through:

●        Comparative research: examining different approaches to sustainability challenges across sectors, communities and geographical contexts.

●        International academic collaboration: connecting researchers and institutions to exchange scientific knowledge, research methods and perspectives.

●        Cross-sectoral cooperation: bringing together academia, industry, public institutions and cultural organisations to address shared challenges.

●        Evidence-based methodologies: developing research approaches, analytical tools and findings that can inform the evaluation of sustainable practices.

●        Knowledge and technology transfer: translating research into practical applications, including digital tools, experimental prototypes and professional guidance.

●        Transferability of research findings: identifying approaches that may inform similar initiatives in other institutional, sectoral or geographical settings.

The addition of COMAR, Dedalus and Percepta further strengthens the University's interdisciplinary research framework, expanding its capacity to contribute to international cooperation on sustainable maritime tourism, emerging technologies, artificial intelligence and responsible innovation.

Together, these activities demonstrate Università IULM's commitment to international collaboration, comparative research and the development and exchange of approaches to tackling the Sustainable Development Goals.

Università IULM collaborates with leading non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to tackle the SDGs through: development of educational resources, research programmes, student volunteering programmes.

These collaborations bring together academic expertise, scientific research, education, volunteering and community engagement to address environmental and social challenges.

Through partnerships with national and international non-profit organisations, Università IULM contributes to initiatives promoting educational inclusion, gender equality, health and wellbeing, environmental sustainability, cultural preservation and social solidarity.

1. Research programmes developed in collaboration with NGOs

SONG ETS – Power2Play: Monitoring and Evaluation of Educational Inclusion (SDGs 4, 10, 17)

In 2025, Università IULM collaborated with SONG ETS (SONG Onlus) through a formal scientific collaboration agreement to monitor and evaluate Power2Play, an educational project designed to combat educational poverty and promote wellbeing, participation and inclusion in Milanese primary schools.

The initiative involved more than 300 children, combining music and sport-based workshops to encourage self-expression, cooperation, respect for rules and inclusive participation. Particular attention was given to children with disabilities and to the involvement of families.

IULM contributed its research expertise by conducting a systematic monitoring and evaluation programme, using:

• Focus groups with educators to examine the educational and relational dimensions of the activities.
• Questionnaires administered to pupils to assess the project's initial effects.
• Analysis of cultural participation and consumption practices among participating children and their families.

This collaboration demonstrates how the University works directly with a non-profit organisation to evaluate an educational intervention, generate evidence on its outcomes and support the improvement of initiatives addressing educational inequality.

By combining the NGO's community-based educational activities with IULM's research methodologies, Power2Play provides a concrete example of academic–NGO cooperation contributing to SDG-related social impact.

2. Student volunteering programmes and educational resources

Moleskine Foundation – Creativity, Cultural Preservation and Youth Empowerment (SDGs 4, 10, 11, 17)

Università IULM has established a formal collaboration agreement with Moleskine Foundation, an international non-profit organisation promoting creativity as a tool for social transformation and youth empowerment.

The partnership creates opportunities for IULM students to participate voluntarily in an educational and cultural training programme dedicated to preserving and promoting African languages, history and cultural heritage.

The programme targets young people aged 18–27 with knowledge of African dialects and aims to strengthen their ability to document, write about and communicate African cultural traditions.

Through this collaboration, IULM contributes to:

• Student volunteering, connecting university education with socially meaningful activities.
• Development of educational resources and cultural skills, supporting the preservation and dissemination of African languages and traditions.
• Youth empowerment and social inclusion, recognising creativity as a resource for participation and social change.
• International cultural cooperation, strengthening the visibility and transmission of cultural heritage.

The partnership demonstrates how university–NGO collaboration can integrate creative education, volunteering and cultural preservation into initiatives supporting the SDGs.

3. Health promotion and community volunteering

AVIS Milano and La Rete di Tutti – Transfusiasm 2025 (SDGs 3, 10, 17)

On 15 October 2025, Università IULM collaborated with AVIS Milano and La Rete di Tutti in the third edition of Transfusiasm, a national initiative combining blood-donation awareness, volunteering and intercultural communication.

The event was organised with the support of professional associations representing translators and interpreters and connected the importance of blood donation with the concept of cultural exchange.

The initiative encouraged translators, interpreters, students and members of the wider community to recognise blood donation as an act of solidarity and civic responsibility.

As part of the event, an AVIS mobile blood-donation unit was made available on the IULM campus in Milan, providing opportunities for eligible participants to undergo preliminary medical assessments and donate blood.

The collaboration demonstrates IULM's involvement in:

• Community volunteering and blood-donation awareness, supporting public health and social responsibility.
• Educational outreach, using communication and cultural activities to encourage participation.
• Cooperation with non-profit associations, combining the organisational capacities of AVIS Milano and La Rete di Tutti with the University's academic and communication expertise.

By bringing together health promotion and intercultural engagement, Transfusiasm 2025 represents a concrete example of university–NGO collaboration contributing to community wellbeing.

4. Social solidarity and support for vulnerable communities

Pane Quotidiano – IULM for Solidarity: Christmas Fundraising Initiative (SDGs 1, 2, 10, 17)

In December 2025, Università IULM promoted a fundraising initiative supporting Pane Quotidiano, a non-profit association providing assistance to people experiencing economic and social hardship.

Organised on the IULM campus during the Christmas period, the initiative invited the entire university community to contribute to the association's charitable activities.

The initiative continued a solidarity effort already supported in the previous year, demonstrating IULM's engagement with a local civil-society organisation addressing social vulnerability.

Through this initiative, the University contributed to:

• Community mobilisation and voluntary participation, encouraging students, staff and other university stakeholders to support people in need.
• Fundraising for a non-profit organisation, providing support for the association's activities.
• Awareness of poverty and social exclusion, promoting solidarity and responsible citizenship within the academic community.

This collaboration illustrates how IULM uses its institutional community and public-engagement activities to support NGOs addressing poverty, food insecurity and social inequalities.

5. Environmental education and sustainability awareness

One Ocean Foundation – Ocean Literacy and Sustainability Communication (SDGs 13, 14, 17)

Università IULM has collaborated with One Ocean Foundation, a non-profit organisation promoting the protection of marine ecosystems and the sustainable use of ocean resources.

The collaboration has focused on environmental education, sustainability communication and the dissemination of research and professional knowledge concerning ocean conservation.

A documented example is IULM Flow Talk 50 – Sustainability and Communication: The Experience of One Ocean Foundation, which brought together representatives of the Foundation and IULM academic expertise.

The initiative explored the relationship between marine conservation, corporate responsibility and sustainability communication, including the importance of transparent reporting and the communication of environmental commitments.

Through this cooperation, IULM has contributed to the dissemination of educational content addressing:

• Ocean literacy and marine ecosystem protection.
• Responsible corporate communication concerning environmental sustainability.
• Awareness of the sustainable blue economy.
• Knowledge exchange between academia and non-profit organisations.

The collaboration demonstrates how IULM's expertise in communication can support an environmental NGO in promoting public understanding of marine sustainability challenges.

PlasticFree – Civic Engagement and Environmental Volunteering (SDGs 11, 12, 13, 17)

Università IULM has also collaborated with PlasticFree, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to reducing plastic pollution and promoting responsible environmental behaviour.

During Milano Green Week 2024, IULM and PlasticFree participated in a community cleanup initiative in Milan's Affori district, involving members of the university community and local residents.

The initiative combined environmental awareness, volunteering and direct community participation, encouraging responsible waste management and action against plastic pollution.

The collaboration illustrates how university–NGO partnerships can translate environmental education into practical civic engagement and contribute to the promotion of more sustainable urban communities.

6. Contribution to the SDGs through NGO collaboration

Through these collaborations, Università IULM demonstrates its commitment to working directly with non-governmental and non-profit organisations to address the Sustainable Development Goals.

The partnerships encompass three complementary areas of activity:

Development of educational resources

Through collaborations with Moleskine Foundation, One Ocean Foundation and AVIS Milano, IULM supports educational and awareness initiatives concerning cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, public health and social responsibility.

Research programmes

The collaboration with SONG ETS demonstrates the University's contribution to NGO-led initiatives through scientific monitoring, evaluation methodologies and research-based assessment of educational and social outcomes.

Student volunteering programmes and community engagement

Through Moleskine Foundation, AVIS Milano, Pane Quotidiano and PlasticFree, IULM provides opportunities for members of its university community to engage with civil-society initiatives addressing social, cultural, health and environmental challenges.

These collaborations connect academic knowledge, educational resources, research expertise and civic participation, contributing to the implementation of the SDGs at local, national and international levels.

Università IULM has a commitment to meaningful education around the SDGs across the university, that is relevant and applicable to all students - across undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional programmes - to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the UN 2030 Agenda.

Sustainability is embedded in the University's educational mission through an interdisciplinary approach connecting social inclusion, environmental responsibility, cultural sustainability and responsible innovation.

IULM promotes sustainability-related learning across its academic disciplines, including communication, management, languages, tourism, arts, media and creative industries. This commitment is reinforced through interdisciplinary educational initiatives, public lectures, professional seminars, workshops and partnerships, providing opportunities to engage with sustainable development beyond individual degree programmes.

1. Strategic commitment to sustainability education

The University's Strategic Plan 2025–2027 establishes the institutional framework for promoting sustainability, social responsibility and innovation throughout IULM's educational and organisational activities.

IULM is also a signatory of the UN Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), aligning its commitment to responsible education with internationally recognised principles.

The Sustainability Committee, chaired by the Rector's Delegate for Sustainability, supports the coordination and development of sustainability-related initiatives.

Together, these institutional commitments provide a framework for integrating the environmental, social, economic and cultural dimensions of sustainable development into university education.

2. Sustainability education across academic disciplines

Università IULM incorporates sustainability-related themes into teaching across its principal disciplinary areas.

Undergraduate programmes

• Fashion and Creative Industries: Interculturalità, Sostenibilità, Inclusività, addressing cultural diversity, social inclusion and sustainability in creative industries.
• Tourism, Management and Culture: Marketing Territoriale e Sostenibilità, exploring sustainable territorial development and destination marketing.

Postgraduate programmes

• Hospitality and Tourism Management: Geography for Sustainable Tourism Development and Sustainable Destinations Management and Communication, focusing on sustainable tourism development and destination management.
• Marketing, Consumption and Communication: Demografia e Sviluppo Sostenibile and Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability, addressing sustainable development, demographic transitions and responsible business practices.
• Strategic Communication: Principles of CSR Communication and the Sustainability Communication specialisation, developing competencies in sustainability communication and corporate responsibility.

These examples demonstrate how sustainability-related knowledge is connected to the professional competencies developed within different academic fields.

3. University-wide sustainability education initiatives in 2025

Throughout 2025, Università IULM promoted a broad programme of educational activities addressing the Sustainable Development Goals.

These initiatives complemented formal academic teaching by connecting students with scientists, sustainability experts, international organisations, businesses, public institutions and civil-society representatives.

Environmental sustainability, climate action and biodiversity

Stefano Mancuso at IULM – What Can We Learn from Plants? – 18 September 2025 (SDGs 11, 13, 15)

As part of Milano Green Week 2025, Università IULM hosted internationally recognised plant neurobiologist Stefano Mancuso for an educational lecture exploring communication, adaptation, cooperation and resilience in the plant world.

The event encouraged participants to reconsider the relationship between humans and nature and examine how ecological systems can inspire more sustainable approaches to social organisation and environmental challenges.

The initiative involved the Rector, the Rector's Delegate for Sustainability and the City of Milan's Councillor for the Environment and Urban Green Spaces, connecting scientific knowledge, academic education and public environmental policy.

By bringing scientific research on biodiversity and ecological resilience into an interdisciplinary university setting, IULM contributed to environmental literacy and awareness of sustainability challenges.

IULM Flow Talk 57 – Hot Shots: How to Survive a Climate Crisis and Build a New World – 17 April 2025 (SDGs 4, 13, 17)

Organised in connection with Earth Day 2025, this Flow Talk addressed the climate crisis and the challenges of building a more sustainable future.

The initiative provided an opportunity to engage with climate-related issues through communication, scientific awareness and public discussion, reinforcing the role of education in promoting informed environmental responsibility.

Elisa at IULM – Environmental Sustainability in Live Music – 3 October 2025 (SDGs 11, 12, 13, 17)

Università IULM hosted singer Elisa for a discussion with students about the environmental results of her June 2025 concert at Milan's San Siro Stadium.

The initiative presented an applied case study of sustainability in the live entertainment industry, examining:

• Reduced-impact energy solutions.
• Sustainable mobility for audiences and production.
• Responsible waste management and circular-economy practices.
• Environmental legacy projects and cross-sectoral partnerships.

The event was open to all IULM students and the wider public, demonstrating how sustainability education can connect environmental principles with the University's specialisations in music, events, communication and creative industries.

The associated environmental assessment reported a 51.9% reduction in the concert's direct environmental impact, providing a concrete example of sustainability measurement and practical intervention.

Sustainable consumption, responsible business and food systems

L'Oréal for the Future Day 2025 – 13 May 2025 (SDGs 8, 9, 12, 13, 17)

Università IULM hosted the fourth edition of L'Oréal for the Future Day, promoted by L'Oréal Italia in collaboration with StartupItalia.

The event provided a platform for dialogue among businesses, institutions, the academic community and younger generations on sustainability, innovation and the responsible transformation of production systems.

It enabled students to explore how environmental and social responsibility influence business strategy, innovation and corporate decision-making.

Aggiungi il Giusto a Tavola – Sustainability, Ethics and Responsible Food Choices – 19 May 2025 (SDGs 2, 8, 12, 17)

Organised in collaboration with Altromercato, this conference examined how sustainability and ethical values are transforming food consumption and consumer behaviour.

The initiative brought together academics, market experts and industry professionals to discuss consumer perceptions, responsible purchasing decisions, fair trade and the role of businesses in promoting sustainable consumption.

The event connected sustainability education with practical examples from the food sector, encouraging critical reflection on consumption choices and social responsibility.

Strategies, Skills and Tools for Sustainable Tourism – 28 May 2025 (SDGs 8, 11, 12)

Part of IULM's Strategy and Communication lecture series, this event addressed the skills, strategies and professional tools required to promote sustainability in tourism.

The initiative connected academic knowledge with professional practice, providing an interdisciplinary perspective on sustainable tourism management.

Strategy and Communication of Sustainability – 9 October 2025 (SDGs 4, 8, 12, 13)

This event examined the relationship between sustainability and strategic communication, with contributions from academic and professional experts.

The wider Strategy and Communication series was free and open to students, faculty, businesses, alumni and the public.

Importantly, participation was recognised within IULM's Badge of Honour framework for students from all undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes, providing documented evidence of cross-disciplinary access to educational activities.

Digital sustainability and responsible innovation

Launch of the Digital Sustainability Hub – 9 October 2025 (SDGs 4, 9, 12, 17)

Università IULM established the Digital Sustainability Hub, coordinated by Professor Andrea Carignani, to promote an interdisciplinary approach to digital sustainability.

The Hub addresses the environmental, economic, social and cultural impacts of digital technologies, recognising that sustainable digital transformation extends beyond technological efficiency.

Its activities are organised around three complementary pillars:

• Understanding: investigating the environmental, economic and social impacts of digital technologies.
• Awareness: developing educational initiatives for students, professionals and citizens.
• Action: supporting projects and partnerships that promote responsible digital practices.

The Hub reinforces IULM's educational commitment by connecting sustainability with digital innovation, ethics, data governance and responsible technology use.

Look4ward – Build Your Future – 30 October 2025 (SDGs 4, 8, 9)

Promoted by Università IULM and Intesa Sanpaolo, this initiative addressed emerging professional competencies and the transformation of the labour market through innovation, sustainability and digitalisation.

It connected sustainability education with employability, professional development and the skills required to navigate economic and technological change.

Gender equality, inclusion and social responsibility

Oltre la Diversity – Inclusion and Neurodiversity in Education and Employment – 6 May 2025 (SDGs 4, 8, 10, 17)

Università IULM organised an interdisciplinary event addressing neuroinclusion and access to employment for people with physical and cognitive disabilities.

The initiative involved representatives of academic institutions, businesses and organisations working on inclusive employment, including Auticon, PizzAut and Fondazione Adecco ETS.

Discussions examined the transition from university to employment, the value of neurodiversity in professional environments and organisational approaches to inclusion.

The event was open to participants upon registration and was recognised within the University's Badge of Honour programme, connecting inclusion education with students' wider learning experience.

Università in Comune – IULM for Gender Equality and Public Policies – 2025 (SDGs 5, 10, 16, 17)

This initiative connected academic expertise with public-policy discussions on gender equality.

It provided an opportunity to examine the relationship between gender representation, institutional action and the development of more inclusive public policies, reinforcing the importance of equality as a shared educational and civic responsibility.

Gender-Based Violence and Data Science – 2025 (SDGs 5, 10, 16)

Through research dissemination and public discussion, IULM contributed to awareness of gender-based violence using statistical evidence and data analysis.

The initiative illustrates how data literacy, social research and communication can support understanding of discrimination and violence and contribute to more informed public debate.

IULM's Initiatives for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women – November 2025 (SDGs 5, 10, 16)

IULM promoted initiatives addressing gender-based violence, awareness, prevention and the importance of equality and respect.

These activities complemented academic teaching by encouraging reflection on social responsibility, discrimination and the role of institutions in fostering inclusive communities.

International cooperation, food security and the SDGs

FAO at IULM – A Strategic Partnership for Education and Cooperation – 8 April 2025 (SDGs 2, 4, 17)

Università IULM hosted an initiative dedicated to cooperation with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), following the Letter of Intent signed in January 2025.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss food security, sustainable development, communication and the role of education in advancing the SDGs.

The collaboration connects the University's academic expertise with international sustainable development priorities and supports dialogue on the role of communication and education in addressing global challenges.

4. Recognition of interdisciplinary educational participation

A particularly important component of IULM's approach is the Badge of Honour, which recognises students' participation in selected extracurricular educational activities.

The University's official list of recognised Badge of Honour activities includes initiatives addressing inclusion, communication, culture and other interdisciplinary themes.

In 2025, sustainability-related activities such as Oltre la Diversity and the Strategy and Communication series were recognised within this framework.

The latter explicitly allowed participation by students from all undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes, demonstrating how sustainability-related educational opportunities can be incorporated into students' broader academic experience regardless of their field of study.

This mechanism provides evidence that sustainability education at IULM extends beyond specialised courses and can form part of recognised extracurricular learning.

5. Contribution to meaningful education for the SDGs

Università IULM's approach to sustainability education combines:

• Institutional commitment, through the Strategic Plan, PRME and Sustainability Committee.
• Disciplinary integration, through sustainability-related teaching across academic programmes.
• Interdisciplinary education, through conferences, lectures, workshops and public discussions.
• Recognised extracurricular learning, through initiatives included in the Badge of Honour framework.
• Applied learning, through engagement with businesses, public institutions, international organisations and civil-society stakeholders.

The extensive programme of initiatives promoted in 2025 demonstrates how IULM connects the Sustainable Development Goals with environmental literacy, responsible business, cultural sustainability, digital innovation, social inclusion and gender equality.

By combining academic teaching with accessible interdisciplinary initiatives and opportunities for practical engagement, Università IULM supports the development of the knowledge, critical awareness and professional competencies needed to contribute to the UN 2030 Agenda.

This commitment contributes directly to SDG 4.7 and SDG 17, while also supporting progress across the environmental, economic and social dimensions of sustainable development.

Università IULM has dedicated courses (full degrees and electives) that address sustainability and the SDGs, across the areas of communication, management, marketing, tourism, fashion, arts and creative industries.

The University's Strategic Plan 2025–2027 provides the institutional framework for integrating sustainability, innovation and social responsibility into IULM's educational mission. The Plan recognises the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge and the development of competencies that enable students to address contemporary environmental, economic, technological and social challenges.

As a signatory of the UN Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), IULM promotes sustainability not only as a transversal educational principle but also as a specific field of academic study, equipping future professionals with the knowledge and competencies necessary to contribute to sustainable development through responsible and ethical practices.

During the 2024–2025 academic year, IULM offered 17 dedicated sustainability-related teaching activities across eight undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes. These include both compulsory courses, integrating sustainability into formal academic pathways, and optional courses, providing opportunities for specialised learning.

The following courses demonstrate the breadth of IULM's sustainability-focused academic offering.

1. Undergraduate programmes

Fashion and Creative Industries

• Interculturalità, Sostenibilità, Inclusività — Compulsory, second year. Explores the relationship between sustainability, interculturality and inclusion in fashion and creative industries, addressing cultural representation, diversity and social responsibility. SDGs 4, 5, 10, 12.

Tourism, Management and Culture

• Marketing Territoriale e Sostenibilità — Compulsory, third year. Examines sustainable territorial development, destination marketing and responsible tourism, connecting place identity and local development with environmental and social sustainability. SDGs 8, 11, 12.

Corporate Communication and Public Relations

• Politiche Industriali e Sviluppo Sostenibile — Optional, second year. Examines industrial policies and their relationship with sustainable economic development, exploring the role of public policy and business transformation in addressing sustainability challenges. SDGs 8, 9, 12.
• Pubblicità, Comunicazione Sociale, Sostenibilità — Optional, third year. Investigates the role of advertising and social communication in promoting responsible behaviour, sustainability awareness and positive social change. SDGs 4, 10, 12.

2. Postgraduate programmes

Fashion Communication and Luxury Strategies

• Sustainability Strategies for Luxury and Fashion — Compulsory, first year. Focuses on sustainability strategies within the fashion and luxury industries, connecting responsible business practices with the environmental and social challenges facing the sector. SDGs 8, 12, 13.

Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM)

The programme offers sustainability-focused teaching activities addressing destination governance, corporate responsibility and sustainable tourism development.

• Geography for Sustainable Tourism Development — Compulsory, first year. Examines the geographical, environmental and socio-economic dimensions of sustainable tourism development, including destination planning and territorial resilience. SDGs 8, 11, 13.
• Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability — Optional, second year, within the Sustainable Destinations Management and Communication curriculum. Addresses corporate responsibility, sustainability-oriented management and the relationship between business practices and sustainable development. SDGs 8, 12, 17.
• Strategy Design for Sustainable Destinations — Compulsory, second year, within the Sustainable Destinations Management and Communication curriculum. Develops competencies in destination management, visitor-flow analysis, tourism seasonality and strategies for more sustainable destination development. SDGs 8, 11, 12.

The programme also includes the dedicated second-year Sustainable Destinations Management and Communication curriculum, providing a specialised academic pathway focused on sustainable tourism management and communication.

Marketing, Consumer Behaviour and Communication

• Sustainability and Branding — Optional, first year, within the Marketing, Consumer Behaviour and Communication curriculum. Examines the relationship between sustainability and branding, exploring how environmental and social responsibility influence brand positioning and consumer perceptions. SDGs 8, 12.
• Demografia e Sviluppo Sostenibile — Optional, first year, within the Marketing, Consumi e Comunicazione curriculum. Explores demographic transformations and their implications for economic development, social inequalities and sustainability. SDGs 8, 10, 11.

Strategic Communication – Sustainability Communication Curriculum

The Sustainability Communication curriculum represents one of IULM's most comprehensive academic pathways dedicated specifically to sustainability.

The curriculum includes six compulsory second-year teaching activities, covering complementary dimensions of environmental, social and economic sustainability:

• Sustainability Marketing and Management — explores sustainability-oriented marketing strategies and responsible management practices. SDGs 8, 12.
• Management for Sustainability — examines the integration of sustainability into organisational management and strategic decision-making. SDGs 8, 12, 17.
• Sustainability for Marketing and Sales — focuses on responsible marketing and sales practices, sustainable consumption and the relationship between businesses and consumers. SDGs 8, 12.
• Digital Sustainability — investigates the environmental, economic and social implications of digital technologies and responsible digital transformation. SDGs 9, 12, 13.
• Sustainable HR Management — addresses sustainability in human resource management, including organisational wellbeing, inclusion and responsible employment practices. SDGs 5, 8, 10.
• Global Environment Issues and the Human Values — examines global environmental challenges and their relationship with ethical principles, human values and social responsibility. SDGs 4, 12, 13.

This dedicated curriculum provides a structured educational pathway through which students develop specialised competencies in sustainability management, responsible communication, digital sustainability, organisational responsibility and global environmental challenges.

Arts, Heritage Enhancement and Market

• Musei per la Sostenibilità Integrata - Optional, second year. Explores the role of museums and cultural institutions in promoting integrated sustainability, connecting cultural heritage preservation, institutional responsibility and sustainable cultural development. SDGs 4, 11, 12.

The courses listed above represent dedicated teaching activities specifically focused on sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals. However, IULM's commitment to sustainability education extends well beyond these specialised courses. Every course offered by Università IULM includes a dedicated section addressing sustainability as it applies to the specific academic discipline, ensuring that sustainability-related principles, challenges and practices are systematically integrated into teaching across the entire curriculum.

This university-wide approach enables students, regardless of their degree programme or field of study, to understand the environmental, social, economic and cultural dimensions of sustainability within their respective disciplines. By combining dedicated sustainability courses with the integration of sustainability-related content into every teaching activity, IULM ensures that education for sustainable development is both specialised and transversal, providing all students with the knowledge and competencies needed to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

3. Interdisciplinary contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals

IULM's sustainability-related academic offering demonstrates that dedicated education for the SDGs extends beyond environmental studies and encompasses multiple dimensions of sustainable development.

The University's courses address:

• Environmental sustainability, through sustainable tourism, responsible consumption, environmental challenges and digital sustainability.
• Economic sustainability, through responsible business management, sustainable marketing, corporate social responsibility and industrial development.
• Social sustainability, through inclusion, intercultural understanding, responsible employment practices and the reduction of inequalities.
• Cultural sustainability, through the preservation and responsible management of cultural heritage, museums and creative industries.
• Sustainability communication, through specialised teaching on responsible communication, sustainable branding and stakeholder engagement.

The combination of compulsory courses, optional electives and dedicated postgraduate curricula enables students to develop both foundational awareness and advanced professional competencies in sustainability.

By offering specific sustainability-related courses across its academic disciplines, Università IULM translates its institutional commitment into structured educational opportunities, preparing graduates to address the environmental, social, economic and cultural challenges of sustainable development.

Università IULM has dedicated outreach educational activities for the wider community, through a comprehensive programme of outreach and lifelong learning activities open to alumni, displaced people, refugees and the local community.

These initiatives extend the University's mission beyond the campus, providing accessible, inclusive, and interdisciplinary learning opportunities aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Through free educational programmes, public lectures, cultural events, professional development activities and international cooperation, IULM promotes lifelong learning, knowledge dissemination, active citizenship and social inclusion, ensuring that university education contributes to the development of the wider community.

The University's commitment is supported by its Strategic Plan 2025–2027, which recognises the importance of the Third Mission, public engagement and the dissemination of knowledge beyond the academic community.

1. Lifelong learning and alumni engagement

Università IULM promotes continuing education and professional development through conferences, workshops, seminars and networking opportunities involving alumni, professionals, businesses and institutional representatives.

These initiatives encourage lifelong learning and the continuous development of competencies relating to responsible leadership, innovation, sustainability and inclusive professional practices.

Examples of activities promoted in 2025 include:

• W Leadership Summit 2025 (SDGs 5, 8, 10) – a national forum addressing female leadership, professional empowerment and inclusive management, involving IULM Alumni and Class Editori. The initiative contributed to professional dialogue on gender equality and leadership.
• Le Nuove Frontiere del Marketing (SDGs 8, 9, 12) – an alumni-oriented initiative bringing together graduates and business professionals to discuss contemporary marketing, sustainability communication, artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
• This is Strategy (SDGs 4, 8, 9) – an educational event exploring contemporary strategic thinking and communication, connecting academic perspectives with professional practice.
• Leaders: Women and Men (SDGs 5, 8, 10) – a cycle of meetings examining leadership, communication and contemporary society, encouraging reflection on inclusive organisational cultures.
• Public Affairs, Lobbying and Institutional Relations (SDGs 8, 16, 17) – an educational meeting addressing institutional communication, public affairs and relationships between organisations and public institutions.
• Convivio CERC and Convivio CERC – Leadership & Communication (SDGs 4, 8, 17) – academic and professional meetings fostering knowledge exchange on employee relations, leadership and organisational communication.
• Lezione aperta sul benessere organizzativo (SDGs 3, 8) – an open lecture addressing organisational wellbeing and the importance of healthy working environments.
• Enterprise-Grade Localization 101 (SDGs 4, 8, 9) – a specialist workshop introducing contemporary localisation practices and professional competencies in language services.

These activities extend the University's educational contribution beyond initial degree qualifications, supporting continuous professional development, employability, responsible leadership and knowledge exchange.

2. Open-access education for the public

Università IULM provides free and accessible educational opportunities for individuals who are not enrolled at the University, including school students, teachers, professionals, citizens and members of the wider community.

The University's outreach activities contribute to the democratisation of knowledge by making academic expertise available through public courses, workshops, lectures and educational programmes.

Free educational programmes and lifelong learning

• Fondamenta (SDG 4) – a free online educational programme offering masterclasses delivered by IULM professors on communication, culture, ethics and contemporary issues. Its digital format enables learning beyond the physical campus.
• IULM for the City 2025 (SDGs 4, 11, 17) – a programme of free educational activities open to citizens, bringing university teaching and expertise into direct dialogue with the wider community.
• La strategia della parola (SDGs 4, 16) – a public cycle of educational meetings dedicated to language, communication and contemporary culture.
• Workshop dei Mestieri della Comunicazione (SDGs 4, 8) – an educational workshop introducing participants to professional opportunities and skills in communication.
• IULM hosts the BTP General Sessions (SDGs 4, 17) – educational sessions bringing together experts and participants for knowledge exchange and discussion.

Educational outreach to schools and younger learners

• TOP – Tutoring Online Project 2025 (SDGs 4, 10, 17) – an online tutoring initiative supporting school students through academic guidance and educational assistance. The programme contributes to reducing educational inequalities and improving access to learning support.
• Teacher Training Courses (SDG 4) – professional development opportunities for secondary-school teachers, encouraging the exchange of educational methodologies and academic knowledge.
• Progetto Licei (SDGs 4, 10) – an educational outreach programme connecting university teaching with secondary schools, supporting students' educational development and informed academic choices.
• Junior Winter School 2025 (SDG 4) – a free educational programme for high-school students, offering online lectures delivered by IULM professors across different academic and professional disciplines.
• Junior Summer School 2025 (SDG 4) – a free programme combining university lectures and interactive workshops, allowing high-school students to explore academic subjects and develop new skills.
• Graduate Summer School 2025 (SDGs 4, 8) – an educational programme introducing participants to postgraduate-level learning and advanced academic and professional topics.

Free access to educational and research resources

IULM complements its educational outreach programmes by providing public access to knowledge and cultural resources.

• IULM Library – provides access to bibliographic resources for external users, supporting independent study, research and lifelong learning.
• Apeiron Institutional Repository – makes research publications and academic outputs available through an open-access digital platform.
• IULM Library Catalogue – provides a searchable catalogue of bibliographic resources, supporting the discovery of educational and research materials.

Through these programmes and resources, Università IULM extends access to education and knowledge beyond its enrolled student population, supporting SDG 4 – Quality Education and the principles of lifelong learning.

3. Public lectures and international Flow Talks series

The IULM Flow Talks represent an established programme of public educational webinars involving international experts, academics and professionals.

The series encourages interdisciplinary dialogue on global challenges, communication, innovation, sustainability and social responsibility.

By making expert knowledge accessible through online events, the programme contributes to public education, international knowledge exchange and critical awareness of global issues.

In 2025, IULM also promoted educational initiatives addressing sustainability and the SDGs, including:

• Stefano Mancuso at IULM – Milano Green Week 2025 (SDGs 11, 13, 15) – a public lecture on the intelligence of plants, ecological resilience and the relationship between human society and natural ecosystems.
• IULM Flow Talk 57 – Hot Shots: How to Survive a Climate Crisis and Build a New World (SDGs 4, 13) – an educational discussion addressing climate change, environmental awareness and possible responses to the climate crisis.
• L'Oréal for the Future Day 2025 (SDGs 8, 12, 13, 17) – an initiative bringing together businesses, institutions and the academic community to examine sustainability, innovation and responsible production.
• Aggiungi il Giusto a Tavola (SDGs 2, 8, 12) – a conference on sustainable food consumption, ethical choices and responsible business practices.
• Digital Sustainability Hub (SDGs 4, 9, 12) – an interdisciplinary initiative promoting understanding and awareness of the environmental, social and economic impacts of digital technologies.
• Oltre la Diversity (SDGs 4, 8, 10) – an educational event addressing neurodiversity, inclusion and access to employment.

These initiatives demonstrate IULM's contribution to public education on sustainable development by connecting academic research with societal challenges and encouraging dialogue among universities, institutions, businesses and civil society.

4. Experiential learning through art, cinema, theatre and cultural heritage

Università IULM's campus functions as a cultural and educational space accessible to the wider community, offering exhibitions, performances, public seminars and artistic events.

Through these activities, IULM promotes cultural participation, creativity, intercultural understanding and access to artistic heritage, contributing particularly to SDGs 4, 10, 11 and 16.

Permanent cultural and artistic outreach initiatives

• Centro Universitario Teatrale (CUT) – promotes theatre, creativity and cultural participation through performances and educational activities.
• TAM TAM – Museo Diffuso della Comunicazione – offers access to artistic installations and exhibitions across the University campus, making communication heritage accessible to the public.
• Cascina Moncucco – a restored historic site used for cultural activities, concerts and exhibitions.
• Radio IULM – a publicly accessible web radio platform disseminating cultural, educational and informational content.

Exhibitions and cultural projects in 2025

• The Senses of Giallo: The Body of Crime between Deception and Evidence (SDGs 4, 11, 16) – an exhibition exploring crime, visual representation and the relationship between evidence and interpretation.
• Il viaggio dell'anima – Graciela Iturbide (SDGs 4, 10, 11) – a photographic exhibition encouraging cultural dialogue and appreciation of artistic expression.
• AI-Motion – Second Edition (SDGs 4, 9, 11) – an initiative exploring artificial intelligence, audiovisual production and contemporary creativity.
• Leonardo at IULM (SDGs 4, 11) – a cultural and educational project dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci, encouraging engagement with artistic and intellectual heritage.
• Ethnosemiotics: Results and Perspectives (SDGs 4, 10, 11) – an academic and cultural initiative exploring approaches to the study and interpretation of cultural practices.

Public cultural events, lectures and conferences in 2025

• International Colloque – Three-Day Conference – an international academic and cultural conference promoting scholarly dialogue and knowledge exchange.
• Alessandro D'Avenia at IULM – a literary and educational meeting encouraging engagement with literature, education and contemporary culture.
• Lo spazio attraverso i media – an educational event examining how space is represented and understood through media.
• NeuroNudge IULM – MeetMeTonight 2025 – a public science-engagement initiative introducing neuroscience and behavioural communication to a wider audience.
• Confini di carta – a cultural initiative exploring borders, identity and communication.
• Finale del Torneo Allegria – a community event encouraging participation and cultural engagement.

These activities demonstrate how IULM uses arts, culture, research dissemination and creative expression as instruments of public education, providing opportunities for the wider community to engage with academic knowledge outside traditional classroom settings.

5. Inclusion and outreach for displaced learners and refugees

Università IULM extends its educational mission internationally by supporting initiatives designed to improve access to learning for displaced people, refugees and communities facing barriers to higher education.

A significant example is the IULM InZone Programme, developed within the international educational initiative coordinated by the University of Geneva.

Through this programme, IULM has contributed distance-learning courses for students living in refugee camps, including Azraq in Jordan and Kakuma in Kenya.

Educational activities have covered subjects such as:

• Strategy and Management.
• Data Analysis for Communication.
• Social Media Relations Management.
• Sociology of Media.

The programme provides access to university-level knowledge and professional competencies for learners who face substantial geographical, social and institutional barriers to education.

Through international educational cooperation, IULM contributes to:

• Inclusive access to higher education for displaced learners.
• Development of academic and professional competencies supporting future employment opportunities.
• Digital and distance learning, overcoming geographical barriers to education.
• International partnerships for educational inclusion, supporting knowledge exchange between universities and vulnerable communities.

The InZone collaboration exemplifies the University's commitment to SDGs 4, 10 and 17, extending educational opportunities beyond national boundaries and supporting the principle that education should be accessible regardless of personal circumstances or geographical location.

6. Contribution to lifelong learning and the Sustainable Development Goals

Through its comprehensive outreach and lifelong learning programme, Università IULM demonstrates a sustained commitment to making education and knowledge accessible beyond its enrolled student population.

Its initiatives address different communities and educational needs:

• Alumni and professionals, through continuing education, professional development and knowledge exchange.
• School students and teachers, through free educational programmes, tutoring, summer and winter schools, and teacher training.
• Citizens and the local community, through public lectures, seminars, exhibitions and cultural events.
• International audiences, through publicly accessible educational webinars and global knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Refugees and displaced learners, through international distance-learning partnerships.

The activities promoted in 2025, together with IULM's ongoing educational programmes, demonstrate how the University contributes to lifelong learning, cultural participation, inclusive education and public engagement.

By connecting academic expertise with the needs of local and international communities, Università IULM strengthens its role as an institution committed to the dissemination of knowledge and the promotion of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals.