What are the main changes under the proposed foreign student caps?
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced plans on September 20 to introduce foreign student caps in classrooms alongside a strict ban on full-face coverings like burqas and niqabs in schools. The legislative package also mandates Italian-language lessons for parents of foreign pupils who struggle to integrate.
The government aims to preserve cultural identity and ensure native children do not feel sidelined. Non-citizen students account for approximately 11.6% of nationwide school enrollment, according to figures from Italy's Education Ministry.
What happens next for the proposed legislation in Italy?
The proposed measures will be reviewed by Italy's Council of Ministers before heading to Parliament for formal consideration and debate. While exact caps per classroom have not yet been finalized, officials emphasize that the policy protects classroom standards.
Supporters argue that heavy concentrations of non-native speakers can hinder learning progress. The upcoming legislative process in Rome will determine the final framework and timeline for implementation.
