The international conference FINE EUROPE 2026 – Strengthening Nursing Education for a Safer Tomorrow, hosted by the University of Parma, has successfully concluded, confirming its role as one of the leading European scientific events dedicated to nursing education and the development of health professions training.
The conference brought together approximately 200 delegates from more than 30 European and non-European countries, highlighting the growing international interest in educational innovation, patient safety, and the advancement of nursing competencies. Over the course of the two-day event, more than 140 scientific contributions, including oral presentations and posters, were presented across six parallel sessions, providing an extensive platform for discussion among academics, researchers, healthcare professionals, and students.
Promoted by the European Federation of Nurse Educators (FINE) in collaboration with the University of Parma, the conference represented an important international forum for dialogue on the key challenges currently shaping nursing education. These include pedagogical innovation, the integration of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in educational processes, and the development of shared educational standards at both European and global levels.
The opening ceremony was attended by several distinguished institutional representatives who addressed the international delegates with welcome remarks: Vincenzo Colla, Vice-President of the Emilia-Romagna Region; Massimo Fabi, Regional Councillor for Health Policies of Emilia-Romagna; Michele Guerra, Mayor of Parma; and Albertina Soliani, former Senator of the Italian Republic. Their presence underscored the strategic importance of nursing education for the future sustainability of healthcare systems and the protection of public health.
The success of the conference was made possible through the collaborative efforts of several departments and services of the University. These included the Rector’s Office, the Press Office, the Ceremonial Unit, the SELMA Centre, which ensured the live streaming of the event allowing remote participation, and the Security Service, which provided logistical support throughout the conference. A significant cultural contribution was also offered by CAPAS – the University Centre for Arts and Performing Activities, whose musicians enriched the opening ceremony with high-quality musical performances.
The involvement of the Student Ambassadors, students from the Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Nursing at the University of Parma, was particularly appreciated. With professionalism and enthusiasm, they welcomed delegates and authorities, contributing significantly to the organisation of the event.
“The remarkable level of participation observed,” stated Antonio Bonacaro, Associate Professor of Nursing Science at the University of Parma and Chair of the Conference Scientific Committee, “demonstrates the growing relevance of the international debate on nursing education and the importance of strengthening academic cooperation. Events such as FINE EUROPE 2026 provide a crucial opportunity to share knowledge, promote educational innovation, and contribute to the development of safer and more effective healthcare systems.”
Through this initiative, the University of Parma reaffirms its commitment to promoting research and innovation in health professions education, further consolidating its role as an international reference point in the field of nursing science and education.
