The discussion of the challenges facing the university system also requires firsthand knowledge of its structures and organizational experiences. With this goal in mind, on October 21, 2026, the CoDAU Traveling Council, the Conference of General Directors of Italian Universities, stopped at theUniversità Campus Bio-Medico di Roma.
The day opened with the welcome of Andrea Rossi, CEO and General Manager of the University, and continued with a visit to the laboratories and research centers, prior to the Council's meeting. It was an opportunity to learn more about the Campus Bio-Medico's activities and share experiences, organizational models, and potential collaborations between universities.
"To see them, to get to know each other and to also give birth to ideas and collaborations", he explained Rossi, emphasizing the value of meetings at various university locations. The visit provided a deeper understanding of the connection between education, research, and organization, highlighting the contribution of the institutions and professionals that support academic activities.
During the day, the Rector Rocco Papalia He drew attention to the role of the laboratories, the research center, and the Simulation Center, emphasizing the centrality of the student in the University's educational program. The quality of learning and research environments is indeed matched by the commitment of its people and the organization's ability to support professional and personal growth.
An approach that is also reflected in the relationship between academic governance and general management, described by Papalia as "an ongoing collaboration between the Rector and the General Director"A synergy that helps translate the University's directions into projects, investments, and services, enhancing the facilities and the people who bring them to life.
The visit thus provided an opportunity to discuss the role of administration in supporting the university mission, from teaching to research to services. Simplification, resource planning, staff development, and collaboration between universities remain key themes for building organizations capable of meeting the needs of the academic community and ensuring project continuity.
The stage at theUniversità Campus Bio-Medico di Roma is part of the path of the new CoDAU governance led by Vincenzo German, general director of the Polytechnic University of Turin, supported by Lucia Colitti, Director General of the University of Rome "Foro Italico" and Deputy Vice President, and Peter Di Benedetto, Director General of the University of L'Aquila, Vice President.
After the meetings at the University of Rome "Foro Italico" and at the University of Molise, the visit to UCBM He brought the experience of a non-state university to the discussion, contributing to the sharing of perspectives and solutions for addressing the challenges of university management.
