Public Engagement, Children, and the Pleasure of Knowledge: The Experience of Kidsuniversity Verona, Italy

In Italy, only a few universities have established significative community engagement practices. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a better understanding of the community engagement in Italy using the University of Verona as a case study. An initiative of scientific dissemination is analyzed, i.e. Kidsuniversity. It is a hallmark event targeted to primary and middle school children and their families. The study intends to explore the critical success factors of Kidsuniversity, their sustainability over time and the areas of improvement. The results confirm the importance of selecting a capable co-organizer and the involvement of the faculty as key success factors. Also relevant to ensure effective community engagement are collaborations with the school system, openness to local partners and the ability to ensure customer satisfaction. Even if some limits remain, Kidsuniversity has paved the way to open up the university to its community and to enhance trust in scientific research.