As part of the activities of the UNESCO Chair in “Generative Pedagogy and Educational Systems to Tackle Inequality”, on Friday 6 March 2026 at 11.30 am, the “Filippo Alison” University Theatre at the University of Salerno hosted the keynote lecture “Desire as a Pedagogical Category” by Prof. Massimo Recalcati, one of the most authoritative psychoanalysts and essayists on the Italian and international scene.
Speaking before the academic community of Salerno, Recalcati presented a profound and detailed reflection on the role of desire in educational processes, calling upon each of us to fulfil a fundamental duty:to remain true to the law of our own desire. This is a shift in perspective that places the responsibility on the teacher to guide the student towards the unknown, the unheard-of, and the discovery of their most authentic vocation, of their own desire. A “walk on water” by the Teacher, as described by Recalcati – recalling the famous Gospel scene of Jesus walking on water and inviting Peter to follow him – which aims to support the other in building and nurturing their own life project.
This is the meaning and ultimate aim of the educational approach that advances Professor Mannese’s concept of Pedagogical Generativity. A dynamic, malleable and transformative process that recognises the role of desire in constructing authentic paths of discovery and the development of talent, and through them, the restoration of the human dimension of freedom: the capacity to kindle fires – the truth of knowledge, authenticity and autonomy.
The Lectio Magistralis undoubtedly represented a significant educational opportunity for the University of Salerno, which embraced the chance to engage with Prof. Recalcati’s insights with great participation, interest and enthusiasm. This event has enriched the academic community and is fully in line with the path of openness, dialogue and cultural dissemination that the UNESCO Chair pursues with conviction, in response to the Recommendation on education for peace and human rights, international understanding, cooperation, fundamental freedoms, global citizenship and sustainable development, adopted by UNESCO during its 42nd General Conference in 2023.
System to Tackle Inequality