In 2009, it is Italy's turn to preside and host the meeting between the Heads of State. For the Italian academic system, this represents the occasion and privilege of making a significant contribution towards consolidating the experiment launched at Sapporo.

The issues targeted in the debate shall obviously be in line with those singled out by the G8 summit of Heads of State. They shall generally focus on crucial issues such as the economy, the struggle against poverty, re-launching the African continent, energy sources, the environment and sustainability. The Summit shall have the task of tackling these issues according to academic reasoning and of highlighting the contribution that Universities might make in dealing with them. 

Science and academic disciplines are naturally endowed with an international vocation. This is why the University of the United Nations as well as the leading universities from O5 member nations, other important nations and worldwide networks of universities were invited to participate to broaden the contribution in tackling the issues facing humanity relating to responsible and sustainable development..