Professor Guy Avanzini (1929-2022), who passed away recently, was a founding figure of the educational sciences and training as a university discipline. His research work articulated philosophy, the history of pedagogical doctrines and educational psychology, giving pedagogy its rightful place in its dual perspective of "axiological and praxeological", as he liked to say, linking values and practices. Thus, during his academic career, Guy Avanzini was involved in many scientific projects: in the field of adolescent psychology, pedagogy and adult education, but also through fundamental epistemological and philosophical research. His works and the tribute paid to him in 2021 during a university colloquium, published under the title Regards croisés sur l'éducation. Hommage au professeur Guy Avanzini, testify to this.

Guy Avanzini had a keen interest in action research and in supporting education professionals in their individual and collective research. In addition to his active participation in the training of DHEPS (Diplôme des Hautes Etudes en Pratiques Sociales) and social work students, he made a significant contribution to the support of the Maisons Don Bosco network through his research on Christian pedagogies, and more specifically on the pedagogy of John Bosco.

During this day, we wish to remember this inspiring figure, Guy Avanzini, in a double movement. On the one hand, by reappropriating his career, his theoretical heritage and his fields of reflection. On the other hand, by reflecting on the topicality and liveliness of his reflections in the fields of education and training.

In what way does Guy Avanzini bring a particular perspective to education and training? What writings and theoretical tools does he leave us (Educability, pedagogy of heterogeneity, accompaniment, adult education, etc.)? How does the author of Pédagogies du 20ème siècle shed light on the educational challenges of the 21st century?