Naples celebrates its excellence with the 2025 Saxifraga Prize, awarded to Professor Paolo Ascierto, Professor of Oncology at Federico II University. The award, promoted by the "Le mani di Napoli" association, confirms its role as a benchmark for recognizing those who excel in healthcare, culture, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship.
The very name of the award conveys a powerful message: like the saxifrage blooming among the rocks, Naples transforms difficulties into opportunities, fragility into courage. Ascierto received the prestigious award for his extraordinary international contribution to cancer research and therapeutic innovation.
A tribute that moves the city
The ceremony featured a particularly emotional moment with a tribute to the memory of Franco Di Mare, the journalist who reported reality with courage and humanity. A commemorative plaque was presented to his brother Gino, a gesture that touched those present and reaffirmed how his professional commitment has left an indelible mark on the journalistic community.
The event was attended by prominent institutional figures: Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, Rector Matteo Lorito, Maria Rosaria Campitiello of the Ministry of Health, Antonio Parlati of RAI, and Giovanni Esposito of the Federico II School of Medicine. Naturally, the leadership of the "Le mani di Napoli" association, including President Giancarlo Maresca and Director General Damiano Annunziato, were also present.
The words of the winner
"This recognition is deeply moving," Ascierto said. "It's not just a personal honor, but a tribute to the silent and tenacious work of so many people who work for the good of the community." The professor emphasized how Naples, just like the saxifrage, can flourish even in the most complex contexts.
Ascierto dedicated the award to the entire team at the IRCCS Pascale National Cancer Institute: "The 'hands' we celebrate are those working in the laboratories and departments to offer new hope. We will continue to work so that the hands of science can join those of those fighting the battle against cancer."
In memory of Franco Di Mare
Gino Di Mare expressed the family's gratitude for the tribute to his brother: "This recognition celebrates not only his professionalism, but also the values he conveyed through every article and feature." His words underscored how much Franco loved Naples and how his memory lives on in the city and the journalistic community.
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