Air Force in Ragusa-area schools: 180 students and a debate on transparency

A training course organised by the Italian Air Force, together with the Municipality of Ragusa and the local School Office, involved 180 students from high schools in Modica, Ragusa, Vittoria and Comiso. Organisers describe the initiative as a voluntary "aeronautical culture" programme that ended with a ceremony at the Perracchio Theatre in Ragusa.

Parents' response

The Modica Mothers' Movement released a formal protest calling the project "contradictory and inappropriate," citing two Constitutional articles: Article 11, concerning the repudiation of war, and Article 33, which protects freedom of teaching. The group urged more comprehensive information for families and suggested opening school activities to experts in international law, humanitarian operators and health personnel with crisis experience.

Procedural issues

• The course was not classified as a mandatory PCTO but as an additional, voluntary activity.
• National protocols between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Education set general rules for collaborations, but individual schools' adoption procedures are not uniform.
• There is no formally recognised right of withdrawal for families who do not wish to participate, raising concerns about informed participation.

The Ragusa case reflects a broader national debate on military presence in schools and highlights the need for clearer rules to ensure transparency and protect families' and students' right to information.