Italy dismisses 56 school staff over fake diploma scandal

An investigation into fraudulent qualifications within the Italian public school system has resulted in 56 dismissals of teachers and school staff. The Ministry of Education and Merit is targeting the use of falsified diplomas and irregular certifications used to gain positions in school rankings and obtain substitute teaching roles.

Investigations are being conducted by several prosecutor's offices, including those in Brescia, Verona, Venice, and Como. The crackdown also involves scrutiny of private schools and reports of intimidation against authorities investigating these irregularities.

A notable case involves an individual from Castellabate who used a falsified catering services diploma with a perfect score to secure substitute positions in Brescia. The Lombardy Court of Auditors ruled that the exam session listed on the document never occurred and that the listed teachers disavowed the signatures. The individual was ordered to repay over 15,920 euros in improperly received salaries to the Ministry.