Italy's Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara has unveiled a sweeping reform for elementary and middle schools, aiming to reshape the curriculum with a focus on Western heritage.

Key changes include the introduction of optional Latin lessons in middle schools, a greater emphasis on Italian and Western history, and the study of classical literature like the Bible and epics such as the Iliad and Odyssey.

Music education will also be prioritized from early grades.

Critics argue the reform leans heavily on a nationalist perspective, reducing global historical context by sidelining subjects like geostory.

Supporters, however, see it as a way to strengthen cultural identity and foundational skills.

The reform is set to take effect in 2026-27, following further consultations.