The University of Oulu’s 6G Flagship programme is extending its global collaboration, last week participating at an event hosted by the Lucana Film Commission in Matera, Italy. The discussions included the potential role of emerging communication technologies, like 6G, in areas such as media production and cultural initiatives.
The meeting at Matera’s Casa delle Tecnologie Emergenti (House of Emerging Technologies) brought together Finnish and Italian delegates to explore shared opportunities. Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, wants to position itself as a hub for technological innovation alongside its cultural heritage.
Professor Giampiero Pepe, director of the Casa delle Tecnologie Emergenti, discussed Matera’s role in merging its cultural heritage with new communication technologies, including 6G, as part of the collaboration.
The University of Oulu’s 6G Flagship programme is renowned for shaping the future of wireless communication. 6G technologies, which are expected to enable advancements such as real-time holographic communication and ultra-high-resolution content, could open new avenues for storytelling and media production. These possibilities align with the collaboration’s cultural objectives.
The collaboration builds on a decade-long partnership between Oulu and Matera. With Oulu set to become the European Capital of Culture in 2026 and Matera holding the title in 2019, both cities see mutual benefits in leveraging technology to strengthen cultural narratives.
The partnership includes discussions on the applications of emerging technologies in fields such as agricultural technology and communication systems. With Matera investing in technological innovation alongside its cultural initiatives, the collaboration could support local development and enhance its role as a centre for new technologies.
The collaboration between Oulu and Matera highlights the growing intersection of technology and culture. As both cities look to the future, the integration of advanced communication systems like 6G could offer new ways to preserve and share cultural heritage and foster innovation.