Olimpia Ferrara he is currently deputy mayor of Striano, having been first elected in the last municipal election. He is a candidate for the regional council of Alleanza Verdi Sinistra.
In Striano, the Municipality has invested heavily in the school, also obtaining important funds to build a completely new institution. Even in his election program, he placed great emphasis on schools as social security. Why start there?
“Because schools are the heart of a society. This is why I propose the “Schools open all year round” plan: arts, sports, theater and environmental workshops run by teachers and associations, also open in summer and outside traditional opening hours. And I ask that at least 2 percent of the APBD be allocated to educational extracurricular activities: not spending, but investments against educational poverty.”
In your meetings with these areas, which needs emerged most frequently?
“There is distrust, but also a great desire for redemption. People who are not asking for privileges, but service, transparency, opportunities for young people. And most importantly the possibility to stay in Campania, not to escape.”
One factor in distrust is of course the lack of public transport, starting with Circum. Getting around this province is not easy.
“Having efficient transport is a condition of dignity. If it is lacking, social isolation will increase. We need an extraordinary plan that strengthens buses, trains and connections in the most vulnerable areas and guarantees safety, for example in areas affected by bradyseism.”
Other proposals relate to the environment and climate change.
«Every summer we reach higher and higher temperatures: our streets become embers. We need to reduce heat islands, plant trees, create shade and make cities livable. Greening the city means health, protection of the elderly, well-being of residents and tourists. That’s one of my fights.”
There is a lot of talk about the younger generation, but often, especially in small towns, there is no infrastructure where they can play sports.
“Sport is not a luxury: it is a constitutional right. It is growth, freedom, inclusion. But without an adequate system, this will remain just a theory. We need a regional plan that guarantees structure, economic accessibility and opportunity for everyone, especially for those living on the fringes.”
You proposed a regional minimum wage in public procurement.
«To be precise: 9 euros gross per hour, plus an ethical rating that rewards the right companies. And then a real plan against the work of the poor and the gang masters. Work is not a commodity: it is the first pillar of democratic justice.”
And for young people? What must be done to get them to stay?
«There is the “Eco Skills” program: 10,000 young people are trained in the ecological transition sector, with a decent income of 800 euros for those who take the course. Not welfare, but tools to build a future here, not somewhere else.”
Is there a thread connecting all these proposals?
«Yes: the idea of a Campania that leaves no one behind. One that offers services, decent transportation, busy schools, green cities, fair jobs. A region where the younger generation chooses to live.”
The risk of strong abstentionism looms over the voting results. How to convince voters?
“Participating is the only way to truly change. Let’s defend the right to vote, let’s make our voices heard.”
