Challenges and opportunities of the school system

In recent decades, educational inequalities have emerged as a central issue in scientific and political debate. Educational systems are now expected to do more than guarantee access to education; they must also promote equity in educational outcomes and learning opportunities. Factors such as gender, social background, migrant status, and economic conditions have a significant impact on educational pathways, creating cumulative advantages and disadvantages throughout students’ lives.
This volume is situated within this analytical framework, bringing together six papers presented at the ninth edition of the INVALSI Seminar “Data from and for educational systems: tools for research and teaching”, which was held in Rome from 17 to 19 October 2024.
Taken together, the contributions provide a detailed, multi-level picture of educational inequalities in Italy. They show that the observed gaps do not result from isolated individual factors, but emerge from the interplay between social contexts, institutional frameworks, public policies, and educational practices. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for constructing a more equitable and inclusive education system that can realise the potential of all students in an increasingly diverse society.