On October 1, the Nicolai Institute in Rome hosted the first meeting to get to know the students and form the class that will participate in the “Energie giovani” initiative: a series of workshops and training sessions designed to introduce very young students to the topics of sustainability and the energy transition—because you’re never too young to build your own future!

“Energie Giovani” has officially begun its journey in primary schools. The first step of this new initiative took place at the Istituto N. M. Nicolai in Rome, where we met 150 students in the first and second grades of middle school to introduce the project and begin a dialogue built on curiosity, questions and new perspectives.

Using a simple and engaging approach, closely connected to the students’ everyday experiences, we shared the purpose of the initiative: creating opportunities for children to discover their talents and interests, strengthen their motivation, and learn to imagine their future with greater awareness. This first meeting was designed as a moment of listening and sharing, giving every student the chance to play an active role from the very beginning.

Teachers accompanied and supported us throughout the day, helping to create an open and participatory environment. Their involvement is essential to transforming each meeting into an experience that continues over time and strengthens the connection between schools and the local community.

“Energie Giovani” was created through the commitment of Fondazione MAIRE – ETS in Rome’s IV Municipio and in collaboration with the "Patto educativo di comunità" network operating in the San Basilio district. The project aims to help tackle school dropout and educational poverty through training programmes, workshops and experiential activities capable of bringing together schools, families, local organisations and the wider community.

From civic education and human rights to environmental awareness, the energy transition and the opportunities offered by STEM disciplines, the programme’s contents become tools that help children recognise their potential, nurture their creativity and feel part of a supportive community.

This first meeting marks the official launch of the initiative. Teachers are currently selecting from among the workshops and courses offered by the Foundation, those that best align with the educational programme for the school year. Interested students will then be able to apply for participation. A dedicated class, or more if required, will be formed to attend “Energie Giovani” activities every monday afternoon, either at the school or at the Foundation’s premises, until December 2026.

The Nicolai Institute is the first of the institutes participating in the initiative; in the first half of 2027 (the 2026–2027 school year), we will repeat these activities with other partners.

To learn more about the initiative, its courses and workshops, visit the dedicated page on our website: https://fondazione.groupmaire.com/en/energie-giovani/.

For further information, please contact infoprogetti@fondazionemaire.com.