AFAM Reform: Creativity as Key Driver of Change, Says Former Minister Manfredi
On May 28, 2021, Gaetano Manfredi, a former Italian Minister, presented a lectio magistralis in collaboration with SIEDAS, where he highlighted the importance of creativity as a catalyst for change, surpassing mere technological expertise. He emphasized that the AFAM sector should spearhead societal evolution by fostering talent and aiding economic growth. Manfredi urged AFAM institutions—including academies of fine arts, conservatories, ISIA, the National Academy of Dramatic Arts, and the National Academy of Dance—to become fully integrated into higher education, building upon his previous reforms. Current Minister Maria Cristina Messa is pursuing this vision. Additionally, Antonio Bisaccia is calling for a comprehensive reform of the sector's legal framework (Law 508/99), advocating for a new system that utilizes the PNRR (2021-2026) to enhance autonomy and investment in education and research.
Key facts
- Gaetano Manfredi gave a lectio magistralis on AFAM and universities on May 28, 2021, organized with SIEDAS.
- Manfredi stated that creativity is the most important lever for change, not technological knowledge.
- AFAM institutions include academies of fine arts, conservatories, ISIA, National Academy of Dramatic Arts, and National Academy of Dance.
- Manfredi's reforms aimed to make AFAM a full part of tertiary education.
- Minister Maria Cristina Messa is continuing the reformist direction.
- Antonio Bisaccia is President of the National Council for Higher Artistic and Musical Education.
- Bisaccia criticizes Law 508/99 as outdated and calls for a radical new framework.
- The article proposes using the PNRR (2021-2026) to redesign the AFAM system.
Entities
Artists
- Gaetano Manfredi
- Maria Cristina Messa
- Antonio Bisaccia
- Adriano Olivetti
Institutions
- SIEDAS (Società italiana esperti di Diritto delle Arti e dello Spettacolo)
- Accademia Albertina di Torino
- National Council for Higher Artistic and Musical Education
- Accademia nazionale d’Arte drammatica
- Accademia nazionale di Danza
- Artribune
Locations
- Italy