Conference Agenda

This presentation showcases Service Learning projects developed across the Faculties of the Brescia Campus of the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (Italy). In line with the conference theme, the presentation focuses specifically on the initiative 'Literature and Emotions'. First-year students from the Faculty of Linguistic Sciences and Foreign Literatures collaborated with the editorial staff of Zona 508, a newspaper produced by inmates at the Canton Mombello prison in Brescia.

In partnership with the association Carcere e Territorio, which has been active in local prisons for many years, the project identified the following main objectives: promoting dialogue between the 'inside' and 'outside' of prison through the reading of literary texts and the production of written and journalistic content; creating opportunities for direct encounters between students and inmates, enabling them to share emotions and reflections; fostering the development of civic competencies and encouraging active, responsible participation in community life; and engaging the wider public through a dedicated event and a special issue of the newspaper devoted to literature in prison.

These encounters gave students a meaningful opportunity to challenge stereotypes and prejudices about incarcerated individuals, while also foregrounding the relational, communicative and emotional dimensions of the experience. The project also encouraged critical reflection on the Italian prison system, particularly in relation to the Brescia context, and on the extent to which prison conditions align with national and European standards and with broader principles of human dignity.

The experience fostered empathy and solidarity, as reflected in students’ reflections: 'I did not imagine that there could be so much humanity in such a context. It is remarkable that such different people can share the same space and engage in peaceful, mutually enriching dialogue.' Another student noted: 'I felt part of a world that society tries to conceal and avoid. I would like to thank the inmate editors, who gave us a glimpse into their daily reality.'

When effectively integrated, service and learning can respond to students’ educational needs. When placed at the service of the community, knowledge becomes a practice of active citizenship, fostering individuals who are capable of critical thinking, recognising social needs and providing informed, sensitive responses.