Italy's adult education centers face massive waiting lists

Over 31,000 adults are currently on waiting lists for Italian language courses at Provincial Centers for Adult Education (Cpia). This backlog comes as the Meloni government prepares a new school decree that would mandate free literacy courses for foreign parents whose children struggle in school. Under the proposed regulation, those who refuse to participate following a social services report could face fines ranging from 200 to 1,000 euros.

Emilio Porcaro, president of the national network of Cpia (Ridap), has warned that the new mandate is “inapplicable” due to a lack of resources. He noted that 119 out of 130 surveyed centers are already facing capacity issues. The centers face significant structural challenges, including a shortage of dedicated buildings and teachers, as many rely on hosting classes in other schools during available hours.

Beyond language learners, Cpia centers also serve unaccompanied foreign minors and inmates. Current data indicates that while the centers were originally designed for adults seeking middle school or high school diplomas, their mission has shifted heavily toward fundamental Italian language instruction.