Poverty, inequalities and educational outcomes: a territorial analysis in the age of transitions

Authors

  • Simona Cafieri Istat
  • Gianmarco Borrata Università Federico II
  • Manuela Barba Istat
  • Paola Bianco Istat

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71014/sieds.v80i2.572

Abstract

This paper provides a multidimensional spatial analysis of educational inequality in Italy by integrating regional data (2019–2023) with K-means clustering and Geographically Weighted Regression. The results show that structural poverty, digital exclusion, youth vulnerability, and parental educational background produce markedly uneven literacy and numeracy outcomes, with the magnitude and direction of these effects varying across space. By examining how demographic, digital, and ecological transitions interact with existing vulnerabilities, the study identifies emerging territorial pressures that intensify educational disparities. Overall, the findings offer updated evidence to support more targeted, place-based strategies aimed at reducing persistent and evolving forms of educational disadvantage.

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Published

2026-02-19

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Articles