Regenerating Fragile Territories through the University. The Case of the New University Campus in Scampia, Naples

Abstract

In the great transformation that is affecting the production, reproduction and socialisation of knowledge, the university is inevitably involved in an epochal transition because of its social function and a strong pressure to corporatise. Nevertheless, some universities have not only tried to open their doors to the local community but are also implementing intervention strategies on the ground to contribute to the institution's social potential and to offer new forms of research and teaching. Using third mission activities to enhance the institution’s reputation and attract funding, in recent years, many universities have developed strategic plans and initiatives that reflect a real opening up to the territories. This paper focuses on the case of Naples, and in particular the Federico II University, which has received much praise for building a new campus in the suburbs, the results of which have yet to be evaluated.