Edoardo Mancini appears as a guest on TV2000’s programme “Le cose di casa” to help citizens understand and use digital services
The digital transition is having an ever-greater impact on our daily lives: from accessing public services to managing documents, from communicating with public bodies to the opportunities offered by new technologies. To navigate these tools, procedures and services, we need clear information, skills and learning opportunities accessible to all. It is with this aim in mind that the new collaboration between the Fondazione Mondo Digitale and TV2000 has been launched, bringing the themes of digital citizenship to the programme Le cose di casa, with a weekly contribution from Edoardo Mancini, a trainer and digital facilitator.
In yesterday’s episode, on Wednesday 28 October – which also covered managing water bills and preventing scams – thedigital literacy segment began with the testimony of Graziano Polacchi, a citizen who, despite being familiar with technology and having undertaken training courses, says he still feels unsure about using online services. “From home, I can carry out my business without having to go to public offices or service counters,” explains Graziano, acknowledging the opportunities offered by digital technology, but also the difficulties he faces in using it independently.
Building on this experience, Edoardo Mancini outlined the potential of the electronic identity card (CIE), which allows users to identify themselves online and securely access numerous digital services. He explained how the document works, the importance of PIN and PUK codes, how to activate it via the CieID app, and the precautions needed to protect one’s credentials.
“The fundamental principle, in my view, is to start realising that technology isn’t a tool reserved solely for those who know a great deal about it, but rather a tool that needs to be mastered,” emphasised Mancini. This is a particularly important message for those who fear they lack the necessary skills to navigate the digital transformation.
From television to local communities: digital facilitation
During the programme, a feature was also broadcast on the work of the Rome City Council’s Digital Facilitation Centres, local hubs offering free support, guidance and training to citizens. Launched in 2024 as part of the PNRR, the pilot scheme involved a network of over 80 partners, reaching around 50,500 citizens through activities carried out in schools, senior citizens’ centres and third-sector organisations. This initiative has continued thanks to the support of Roma Capitale, which has recognised its value for the community.
The collaboration with TV2000 now makes it possible to further expand the reach of digital skills, also reaching people who participate less frequently in traditional training initiatives. Television, with its ability to enter homes and speak to different generations, can become an important ally in digital citizenship education. At the end of his talk, when asked to suggest a practical step to start using new technologies with greater confidence, Mancini replied: ‘Don’t demonise the digital and virtual world; be curious, but maintain a critical mindset’.
This invitation also reflects the educational commitment of the Fondazione Mondo Digitale, which has been working for 25 years to make knowledge accessible and to support people through the changes brought about by the digital society.
Note: there were a few typos in the summary graphic shown at the end of the talk.