Rai Scuola to Close, Replaced by 'Italiana'
Beginning October 1, the digital terrestrial channel 57 will transition from Rai Scuola to 'Italiana', under the direction of Angelo Mellone. Rai Scuola, which was founded in 1991 and rebranded in 2009, has not produced any new programming since 2024 and has seen dismal ratings of 0.14% in 2024, 0.13% in 2025, and roughly 0.10% in early 2026. Critics, including members of the Partito Democratico, contend that its educational mission should not be dictated by viewership numbers. Silvia Bencivelli criticized the rationale behind the low ratings as 'intellectually dishonest', while Luca Barra pointed out the necessity for better promotional efforts and a dedicated production team. Content from Rai Scuola will still be accessible on RaiPlay, with plans for a new section. Initially, 'Italiana' will feature reruns of current shows.
Key facts
- Rai Scuola will close on October 1 and be replaced by 'Italiana' on channel 57.
- The new channel will be directed by Angelo Mellone, known for Linea Verde.
- Rai Scuola has not produced new content since 2024, airing only repeats.
- Average share of Rai Scuola: 0.14% in 2024, 0.13% in 2025, 0.10% in early 2026.
- Rai cited low ratings and need to adapt to new generations' viewing habits.
- Partito Democratico has filed a parliamentary question to block the closure.
- Silvia Bencivelli called the low ratings justification 'intellectually dishonest'.
- Luca Barra emphasized the need for a promotion strategy and maintaining a production team.
- Rai Scuola content will be available on RaiPlay, with a new section 'RaiPlay Scuola e Learning'.
- The channel's educational tradition dates back to post-WWII with 'Non è mai troppo tardi'.
- Italiana will initially air repeats of Linea Verde, Linea Blu, and Linea Bianca.
- The name 'Italiana' has drawn criticism for nationalist connotations.
Entities
Artists
- Silvia Bencivelli
- Luca Barra
- Angelo Mellone
- Alberto Manzi
- Stefano Bollani
- Valentina Cenni
- Livia Montagnoli
Institutions
- Rai
- Rai Scuola
- Italiana
- RaiPlay
- Partito Democratico
- Università di Bologna
- BBC
- RaiUno
- RaiTre
- Rai Cultura
- il Manifesto
- Artribune
Locations
- Italy
- Ancona