On 23^rd September 2026, the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia provided the setting for the BELONG multiplier event “Dialogue with University Students: How Football Can Foster Social Inclusion and Belonging”, organised by Professor Veronica Margherita Cocco and Professor Loris Vezzali. The event was included in the programme of the UNIMORE Equality Week 2026, a week dedicated to equality and social inclusion.

The event was organised within the framework of the European project BELONG – “footBall Employed to faciLitate the integratiOn of adolesceNt refuGees”, which promotes the integration of adolescent refugees through football and explores the role of sport as a tool for participation and community building.

The meeting brought together university students and representatives from the worlds of sport and social inclusion to discuss racism, discrimination, and the role of football in fostering more inclusive communities. The event consisted of an interview with Oumar Daffe, Head of Anti-Discrimination and Senior Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist at Lega Serie A, conducted by Dr Michele Bisagni, a psychologist and psychotherapist with expertise in sport psychology. The conversation explored the challenges of addressing discrimination in football and the responsibility of sporting institutions in creating more inclusive environments. It also offered students the opportunity to reflect on how football can challenge stereotypes, connect people from different backgrounds and strengthen a sense of belonging.

The event also presented the activities of Calcio Dilettanti e Solidarietà APS and the SENEGOL project, which uses sport as a means of solidarity, education and inclusion in Senegal. Participants were also invited to contribute to a collection of school supplies for children, schools and local communities in Senegal, linking the discussion to a concrete initiative of solidarity. Through the dialogue between students, sport professionals and organisations engaged in social inclusion, the event highlighted how football can contribute to respect, equality and participation.