The Fondazione Mondo Digitale launches the second Phyrtual Innovation Gym in Rome after the success of the first experience at the Rome Città Educativa (Via del Quadraro 102). Rome’s “Municipio XI Arvalia Portuense” has decided to adopt the digital inclusion and innovation model launched by the FMD to provide more training and professional opportunities, especially for young men and women. The new hub will be organized in the former Quartararo School (Via della Magliana Nuova 296).
“In line with our objectives to improve the neighbourhood and increase services to citizens, especially in terms of new employment opportunities, we have decided to sign this agreement with the Fondazione Mondo Digitale to develop a new space dedicated to innovative activities,” explains Maurizio Veloccia, President of Rome’s 11th District. "We have decided to use the former Quartararo School to provide these services and hope it acts as a meeting points, especially for youth.”
The fist Phyrtual Innovation Gym, conceived by Alfonso Molina, Scientific Director of the Fondazione Mondo Digitale, is equipped with a Fab Lab, a digital manufacturing lab based on MIT’s “Center for Bits and Atoms,” an Immersive Lab, and a Research, Development and Training Environment equipped with cutting edge technology for the study of sensorial and emotional immersion through both traditional and new media. Interactive labs and digital environments provide stimulating educational opportunities for students of all ages.
During the mornings, labs are reserved for school students, including school-work programmes; in the afternoon, activities focus on young men and women in search of employment; while, in the evening, workshops are open to participants of all ages. Thanks to the support of the Italian Ministry of University, Education and Research, the Fondazione Mondo Digitale has also developed the National Network of Phyrtual Innovation Gyms, which currently has over 100 member schools.
Phyrtual Innovation Gyms are configurable, adaptable, inclusive and grassroots. They can be replicated in any context and are open to all citizens to help align education and training to the challenges presented by the 21st century. Based on the guidelines of the Network, the second Phyrtual Innovation Gym, which will be developed in Rome’s “Municipio 11,” will help improve development and innovation, increase services for citizens and help promote other creative poles in Rome and in the Lazio Region.
