Mission, Vision and Values
Mission, values, principles and vision of Università della Svizzera italiana (USI).
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What we are committed to
Mission
As a university, we are an institution devoted to the transfer and development of knowledge, driven by the belief that knowledge is essential to the present and future of humanity.
The mission of Università della Svizzera italiana finds its legal basis in the Law that regulates Università della Svizzera italiana. It consists of:
- Providing quality education
- Performing internationally relevant scientific research
- Contributing to the development of the region and society
In pursuing the three founding elements of our mission, we also aim to:
- Actively contribute to the evolution of the Swiss academic system
- Foster the values of Italian-speaking culture
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What we believe
Values
We believe that those with a goal will find a way, and to identify the right path we draw inspiration from three core values:
- Quality
- Openness
- Responsibility
These values have their roots in our history and are in turn the roots of our present and our future.
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How we act
Our community is built and lives by the following principles:
- Respect
- Honesty
- Reliability
- Responsibility
We put them into practice through concrete conduct and actions, helping to build a safe, respectful and welcoming environment for study and work.
Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics formalises these principles and sets them out as shared points of reference that guide how members of the University act and relate to one another.
Protection of personal integrity
We are particularly committed to protecting personal integrity by providing dedicated measures, procedures and points of contact.
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Where we are heading
Vision
We aspire to become the natural choice for those yearning to grow intellectually, humanly and responsibly.
USI aspires to be a way for the future and to be known as:
- An institution that believes in diversity
- A hub for great talent
- A partner of choice for knowledge transfer
- A knowledge lab
- A place where senses and aesthetics are fostered alongside logic and reason
- An exemplary and coveted employer
- A region-wide campus
- A driver for a sustainable society
The goal is ambitious, but we are committed every day to making it a reality.
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Our Charter
Charter of USI
The Charter of Università della Svizzera italiana embodies and expresses USI’s fundamental principles. It serves as a reference point for all members of our community, in their actions and reflections, enabling these principles to live every day.
Magna Charta Universitatum
USI signed the Magna Charta Universitatum 2020 (MCU 2020) on 13 November 2025, thereby affirming its contribution to the construction of an open, sustainable and cooperative academic space, capable of addressing the global challenges of the present with critical thinking and solidarity.
