Canberra. As part of the initiatives for Italian Language Week, which this year has sustainability as its central theme, Italian Ambassador Paolo Crudele hosted an event in the Italian Residence devoted entirely to the figure of Italo Calvino, with readings of passages from the author’s novels and tales.
Around 30 students of Italian language (age 10-16yo) from some of the capital’s schools and hinterland were the protagonists of an evening that allowed them to get to know some of the key passages of his narrative, his creative dimension, and his attention to issues such as environmental sustainability.
“It was a joy to observe the passion with which young Australian students celebrated Calvino on the occasion of the centenary of his birth, one of the giants of 20th century Italian literature and not only. It was one of the many initiatives celebrating the Italian language throughout Australia, organised by the diplomatic-consular network, with the contribution of managing bodies, Italian-Australian associations, and thanks to the precious, enthusiastic support of Australian cultural and institutional partners.” Ambassador Crudele commented.
Among the activities for this special week is included the National Conference of Italian Teachers in Australia scheduled to take place in Brisbane on 21 October, organised by the Embassy, the local Consulate of Italy, the Italian Cultural Institute of Sydney and the Co.As.It./ILC of Brisbane. It featured talks by experts in the field of language and several seminars for primary and secondary school teachers from all over Australia.
“Once again this year we are pleased to have facilitated a discussion between teachers, language assistants and operators who promote Italian on a daily basis throughout the vast Australian territory. It was an intense day of work on how to improve the quality of Italian teaching for the benefit of the more than 300,000 students throughout Australia,” commented Headmistress Valentina Biguzzi at the conclusion of the meeting, which had Prof. Monica Barni of the University for Foreigners of Siena as guest of honour.
