The DIEM project, recently approved under the first call for proposals, was presented on May 9–10, 2025, at the Italian Pavilion of the Osaka Expo (Japan) during the Make Italian Culture Alive (MICA) initiative. The event, held under the theme Innovating within Tradition: New Professions for the Enhancement of Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighted Italian contributions to global cultural dialogue.

Representing the DIEM partnership, Professor Carlo Bianchini from the Department of History, Design and Restoration of Architecture at Sapienza University of Rome introduced the project. DIEM (“Developing Inclusive Education in the Mediterranean”) addresses the critical challenge of bridging the gap between the rich cultural heritage of Mediterranean communities and their limited access to inclusive education and employment. By enhancing education and training systems focused on cultural heritage, the project aims to empower young people, NEETs, women, and rural populations, while strengthening the capacity of local institutions in sustainable  heritage management across six countries: Italy, Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia, Spain, and Palestine.

Among its innovations, DIEM proposes a cascade training model, a digital and mobile learning infrastructure (including the “DIEM Van”), and an AI-supported multilingual platform to improve accessibility. The initiative is designed to create a multiplier effect in knowledge transmission and job readiness in cultural heritage sectors. The Osaka presentation was part of Make Italian Culture Alive (MICA), a collaborative initiative involving five prestigious Italian universities – Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, University of Florence, L’Orientale University of Naples, University of Milan (Statale), Sapienza University of Rome and the CHANGES Foundation. MICA aims to foster dialogue and cooperation between Italy and Japan by highlighting Italian artistic and cultural heritage.