The conference FINE Europe 2026 – Strengthening Nursing Education for a Safer Tomorrow, hosted by the University of Parma and dedicated to nursing education and the development of competencies in the health professions, concluded with strong international participation. For two days, Parma became a meeting point for the scientific and professional community in the field, welcoming around 200 participants from more than 30 countries across Europe and beyond. The event provided an important opportunity for dialogue among university lecturers, researchers, healthcare professionals, and students, all engaged in discussing the key challenges currently shaping the education and evolution of the nursing profession.
The scientific program featured more than 140 contributions, including oral presentations and posters, organized into several parallel thematic sessions. The discussions addressed central issues for the future of nursing education, such as the development of innovative pedagogical approaches, the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in educational processes, and the definition of shared educational standards at both European and international levels. The conference was promoted by the European Federation of Nurse Educators (FINE) in collaboration with the University of Parma, further strengthening the University’s role as a space for cooperation and dialogue between academic institutions and professional communities involved in the development of healthcare education.
The opening ceremony was attended by several institutional representatives, including Vincenzo Colla, Vice President of the Emilia-Romagna Region, Massimo Fabi, Regional Councillor for Health Policies, Michele Guerra, Mayor of Parma, and Albertina Soliani, former Senator of the Italian Republic. Their presence highlighted the strategic importance of nursing education for strengthening healthcare systems and ensuring high-quality care for communities.
The success of the event was made possible through the collaboration of several structures within the University of Parma, including the Rector’s Office, the Press Office, the Ceremonial Unit, the SELMA Center, which managed the live streaming of the conference, and the Security Unit, which provided logistical support throughout the event. The opening ceremony was also enriched by musical performances organized by CAPAS – Center for Activities and Professions of the Arts and Performing Arts.
A particularly appreciated contribution came from the Students Ambassadors, students from the Bachelor’s Degree Program in Nursing at the University of Parma, who welcomed delegates and institutional guests and supported the organization of the conference with enthusiasm and professionalism.
“The extraordinary participation recorded – stated Antonio Bonacaro, Associate Professor of Nursing Science at the University of Parma, Chair of the Scientific Committee of the conference, and President of the Master’s Programs in Healthcare – demonstrates the growing importance of the debate on nursing education and the need to strengthen international academic cooperation. Events such as FINE Europe 2026 represent a key opportunity to share knowledge, promote educational innovation, and contribute to the development of safer and more effective healthcare systems”.
With FINE Europe 2026, the University of Parma further reinforces its commitment to promoting research, international collaboration, and innovation in the education of healthcare professionals, confirming its role as a reference point within the European landscape of nursing sciences.
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Magnificent Rector, Prof. Paolo Martelli, and Prof. Cecile Dury, together with all members of the Executive Board of FINE Europe, for their incredible support and commitment in making this important international event possible”. — Antonio Bonacaro
Credits: Press Office of the University of Parma