In his EUdemos essay, Francesco Pretini presents a forward-looking vision: Europe must reduce its dependence on non-European powers for semiconductors and microchip technologies, and young people must be at the center of this transformation.
As the global competition with the United States and China intensifies, the EU faces a clear challenge: either act together or risk becoming technologically irrelevant.
Educating the Next Generation of Digital Leaders
Francesco highlights that true technological autonomy starts in the classroom. His proposals include:
- More practical education in robotics, coding, and artificial intelligencein schools and universities
- Alliances between schools, universities, and industriesto deliver targeted training programs
- A new EU-funded scholarship programfor student-led tech sovereignty projects
Education must evolve from a theoretical base to a launchpad for action, preparing students to work in critical industries like semiconductor manufacturing.
Giving Youth a Voice in High-Tech Policy
Francesco proposes creating a European Youth Council on Technology—a platform where young entrepreneurs, engineers, and students can engage directly with EU institutions. This council could:
- Propose new incentives for semiconductor investment
- Accelerate the implementation of the EU Chips Act
- Foster partnerships between public institutions and private companies
This would ensure that youth are not only consulted, but empowered to shape policy.
Promoting Sustainable Innovation in the Chip Industry
The microchip sector also raises environmental concerns, due to its high consumption of energy and raw materials. Francesco calls for:
- Development of “green tech” startupsfocused on energy-efficient chip production
- Hackathons and youth innovation challengesacross the EU
- Support for recycling technologiesin semiconductor manufacturing
This connects Europe’s digital future with its climate goals, led by a generation deeply committed to sustainability.
Building a Common European Tech Identity
Fragmentation across EU member states weakens Europe’s technological ambitions. Francesco sees young people as the key to:
- Creating a shared digital identityacross borders
- Launching youth-led platformsto track and promote EU technology policies
- Using social media and digital campaigns to raise awareness on tech sovereignty
His vision is not just technical—it’s cultural and civic.
Simplifying EU Bureaucracy: The Youth as Drivers of Efficiency
Francesco is critical of bureaucratic delays that slow EU projects like the Chips Act. He encourages young people to:
- Launch advocacy campaigns and online petitions
- Demand greater transparency and efficiency
- Help reshape institutions into more agile, responsive bodies
The EU must show that it can act decisively—especially in the fast-moving tech world.
Conclusion: A Generation Ready to Lead
“Technology is the future, and that future must be built by those who have the energy, vision, and determination to make it better.”
Francesco Pretini’s essay is a call to action: Europe’s technological sovereignty depends on the inclusion of young people. Through education, innovation, and civic participation, a new European digital era can begin—sustainable, collaborative, and youth-led.
Pretini-Francesco_EUdemos-Contest-2025 su How Europe Can Build Its Future Through Innovation
