Giovanni Lapis

Giovanni Lapis is a researcher and subject expert in the Department of Asian and North African Studies at Ca' Foscari University of Venice. His work bridges religious studies, intercultural education, and digital learning, with a focus on East Asian religions—particularly Japanese traditions—and their role in contemporary educational contexts. He is actively involved in research projects, academic associations, and teacher training initiatives across Europe.

• PhD in Asian and African Studies, Ca' Foscari University of Venice (2021)
• Master’s in Religious Studies, University of Padua (2009)
• Bachelor’s in East Asian Languages and Cultures, Ca' Foscari University of Venice (2006)

Giovanni Lapis’s research centers on the teaching of Asian religions in public education, with a critical lens on Eurocentrism, Orientalism, and confessionalism. He explores how religious education can become more inclusive, intercultural, and academically rigorous through engagement with East Asian philosophical and religious traditions. His recent work emphasizes non-confessional pedagogy, the critique of the "World Religions" paradigm, and the role of digital media in shaping religious understanding.

His recent publications span topics such as religious literacy, youth perceptions of spirituality, and the development of e-learning tools like the JALEA system for Japanese language learning. The articles reflect a consistent interdisciplinary focus on education, cultural studies, and the sociology of religion, with a strong emphasis on practical applications in school and university settings.

Scientific awards and recognitions include none explicitly listed, but his leadership in EU-funded projects and participation in international academic associations demonstrate high scholarly engagement.

Lapis has served as a teaching assistant and university tutor in courses on Chinese and Japanese religions, contributing to curriculum design and online learning platforms. He has been involved in significant research grants, including projects funded by the European Commission (Erasmus+), Mitsubishi Corporation, and the Italian Episcopal Conference. His role often includes co-directing, designing educational tools, and reporting.

He is a core member of the JALEA (Japanese Learning) research team and has contributed to the SORAPS and IERS projects, which focus on combating religious prejudices and promoting intercultural education. These initiatives involve collaboration with international partners and the creation of scientific-didactic resources for educators.