A programme based at the University of Naples is helping to fill the digital skills gap, boost employability and promote entrepreneurial culture in Italy’s Campania region. Digital Academies for Inclusive Learning (DAIL) has provided training to around 3 000 national and international participants. Around 95 % of DAIL graduates have gone on to find work with local and global companies, or have started their own businesses. DAIL was established in 2016 with the help of ERDF funding.
- 31 August 2020
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The academy’s offer builds on a partnership between the university and number of global players, including Apple, Cisco, Deloitte, Capgemini, Axa and FS Italiane. The training blends technical knowledge about coding, computing and prototyping with softer skills such as critical thinking, design and management practices.
Providing students with a heightened awareness of social responsibility in business is also a key focus. The aim is to develop individuals who can work well in a team, solve problems and exercise leadership, while paying attention to detail.
Mentoring and peer assessment complement traditional classroom work, seminars and hackathons. Students have the opportunity to undertake internships in high-tech and manufacturing companies. The academy’s digital education programme is strengthened by its position at the University’s San Giovanni campus, which provides a home to business incubators, labs packed with cutting-edge facilities and start-up companies.
Boosting employability
An annual jobs fair allows DAIL students to present their portfolios to more than 100 companies and investors, all of whom offer job interviews during the event. Those graduating from the academy’s year-long training courses can expect to receive multiple job offers from both ICT and traditional manufacturing companies that operate in Campania and internationally.
About a third of graduates start their own businesses or become freelance operators. Thanks to the campus incubators, support is provided throughout the start-up process. Many graduates have also become involved in social entrepreneurship projects across the world – from Milan to Malawi and India to South Africa.
Wider benefits
DAIL has attracted more talent to the region. A growing number of firms, such as Accenture, Sita and TimWK, have relocated around the campus area to tap into an ecosystem that is geared to innovation.
Meanwhile, a fast-track railway line connects the campus with the Naples metropolitan area. Commercial and hospitality services – including shops, restaurants and student housing – have begun to locate to the campus neighbourhood, which is helping to revitalise the area.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Digital Academies for Inclusive Learning” is EUR 5 269 972, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 5 269 972 through the “Campania” Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Education and Training”.