The Università della Valle d’Aosta – Université de la Vallée d’Aoste is a bilingual public university located in the Alpine region of northern Italy. Known for its cross-cultural perspective and close ties to the local territory, the university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in economics, education, political science, and languages, with a strong emphasis on internationalization, sustainability, and regional development. Bridging Italian and French academic traditions, UniVdA fosters interdisciplinary research and experiential learning, connecting students with institutions and communities across the Euroregion. With a focus on applied knowledge and civic engagement, the university serves as a dynamic hub for cultural exchange and innovation at the intersection of local identity and global challenges. Mario Cucinella (b. 1960, Palermo) is a leading Italian architect known for his pioneering work in sustainable design. Founder of Mario Cucinella Architects and the School of Sustainability (SOS), his practice blends environmental innovation with human-centered architecture. A former collaborator of Renzo Piano, Cucinella has designed landmark projects across Europe, China, and Africa, and curated the Italian Pavilion at the Venice Biennale (2018). His approach combines advanced technology with deep ecological awareness, shaping buildings that respond to climate and community.
