XXVI Week of the Italian Language in the World – Contest for Schools and Universities

XXVI Week of the Italian Language in the World – Contest for Schools and Universities

Dear Teachers and Colleagues,On the occasion of the XXVI Week of the Italian Language in the World (SLIM), held from October 19 to 25, 2026, we are pleased to announce our new contest for students of Italian in the New England consular district.

This year’s theme is: “Lingua gentile, lingua geniale: ideare, progettare, creare con l’italiano”.

This theme is the inspiration for our contest. Italian is the driving force behind Italy’s values, ideas and vision in the world: a language of genius, heir to a long and rich history and tradition, through which Italy shares the very best of its know-how: technology, science, engineering, design, fashion, gastronomy, literature, art and history.

The contest is open to all students of Italian in schools and universities within the consular jurisdiction (Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont), in five categories:

• Primary School – grades K-5 (beginner – intermediate – advanced)
• Middle School – grades 6-8 (beginner – intermediate – advanced)
• High School – grades 9-12 (beginner – intermediate – advanced)
• College/University (beginner – intermediate – advanced)
• Bilingual Students

Students may participate individually or in groups.

Students will interview an Italian expert from the fields of science, technology, engineering, design, fashion, gastronomy, literature, art or history. Following the interview, they will create an original work that summarizes, comments on or interprets the themes explored in the interview.

Please see the call for entries for more information on the accepted formats.

Submissions must be sent to the Consulate by February 28, 2027.

Works will be evaluated on originality, development of the theme, language proficiency and expressive effectiveness.

Winners will receive a book voucher offered by the Consulate General and the sponsors of the initiative.

The winners will be announced at a dedicated award ceremony. All participants will receive a certificate of recognition from the Consulate General.

Useful documents:

1. Bando del concorso – versione italiana
2. Bando del concorso – versione inglese
3. Modulo di partecipazione
4. Liberatoria per l’uso delle immagini
5. Power Point presentazione concorso
6. Lista esperti

For further information and to submit entries: ufficioscuole.boston@esteri.it (subject: CONCORSO SLIM 2026).