Master PMP Students Visit the Swiss Federal Palace

Students from the Master in Public Management and Policy (PMP) at Università della Svizzera italiana, the University of Bern, and the University of Lausanne took part in the traditional annual visit to the Swiss Federal Palace in Bern—an educational experience that offers a close-up look at how institutions function.

Accompanied by Professor Jean-Patrick Villeneuve (Faculty of Communication, Culture and Society at USI) and Professor Adrian Ritz (University of Bern), the students had the opportunity to observe federal political processes and the dynamics of parliamentary work firsthand.

During the visit, the group observed live parliamentary sessions and toured the Federal Palace, gaining a deeper understanding of how institutions function and of the roles individuals play in shaping public policy. The programme was rounded off by an encounter with Member of the Council of States Flavia Wasserfallen (SP – Bern), who provided a firsthand account of political activity and public service in Switzerland.

USI doctoral researchers Lorain Fornerod and Victor Rorato also took part in the initiative, contributing to the dialogue and exchange between participants.

Beyond the institutional dimension, the day offered students across various PMP programmes a valuable opportunity to connect, fostering the exchange of perspectives and experiences. The visit concluded with a networking reception that further stimulated dialogue and collective reflection on public management and policymaking.

The Master in Public Management and Policy is a joint national academic initiative offered by USI, the University of Bern via the Kompetenzzentrum für Public Management (KPM), and the University of Lausanne via the Institut d'Haute Études en Administration Publique (IDHEAP).