Interdisciplinary training in energy for 40 young people

Getting the next generation involved in the energy transition right from the start. The ‘Youth and Energy Hub’ has been launched – an interdisciplinary initiative designed to engage young people in developing leadership ideas. The Hub, launched by the Enel Foundation, is based on the belief that the major transformations of our time can only be managed through ongoing dialogue between those who are driving change today and those who will be called upon to carry it forward. The programme will involve around 40 young professionals from institutions, international organisations, universities, research centres and organisations active in the energy, climate and science communication sectors. The initiative was presented during the event ‘Young People and Energy: intergenerational dialogues on the future of energy’, under the patronage of the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security and the National Youth Council. “I am certain,” said the Minister for the Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, “that we will receive invaluable contributions to shaping the future of the energy system.” The day’s proceedings continued with a welcome address by Maria Grazia Chiuri and a keynote speech by Elisabetta Colacchia, a board member of the Enel Foundation and Head of People and Organisation at Enel, focusing on the development of talent as a driver of transformation. This was followed by speeches from Andrea Abodi, Minister for Sport and Youth, Maria Alessandra Gallone, President of the Higher Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, and Marcella Panucci, adviser to the Minister for Universities and Research on research competitiveness, internationalisation and relations with industry. Three key themes were addressed: the evolution of the energy system, the role of technology, and the new balance between generations. The highlight of the day was the launch of the Youth and Energy Hub, presented by Giulia Genuardi, Director of the Enel Foundation, and Edoardo Italia, President of the National Youth Council, with a video message from Alessandro Guerri, Director-General of the Aief Directorate at Mase. “The aim is to create a community of young leaders capable of making a tangible contribution to the priorities and strategies that will shape the future of energy in Italia and around the world. We are living through a unique moment in history: for the first time, five generations are living side by side, each bringing different skills, experiences and perspectives. The challenge is not to choose one vision over another, but to succeed in integrating them,” concluded Genuardi.