Understanding the Role and Importance of DSGA in Schools

Who is the DSGA and What Do They Do in Schools in Italy?

The DSGA, or Director of General and Administrative Services, plays a vital role in Italian schools, overseeing the operational organization of all ATA staff (administrative, technical, and auxiliary).
This position is crucial for the smooth operation of educational institutions.

The responsibilities of a DSGA encompass a wide range of administrative duties, from financial management to logistics and external relations.
Given their extensive responsibilities, the DSGA ranks second in the school hierarchy, just below the School Principal.

What Does DSGA Stand For?

DSGA stands for Direttore dei Servizi Generali e Amministrativi.
This professional role is essential for ensuring that schools function efficiently and adhere to legal requirements.

While the School Principal manages educational activities, the DSGA directs all administrative and accounting procedures, working independently in some areas while collaborating with the Principal in others.

Requirements to Become a DSGA

To become a DSGA, candidates must possess specific qualifications.
This role requires experience in public administration, a deep understanding of educational regulations, and financial management skills.

Essential qualifications include:

• A degree in law, economics, or public administration;
• Experience in public entity administration;
• Knowledge of school regulations and operational standards;
• Capability in preparing and managing budgets.

DSGA Responsibilities

The responsibilities of a DSGA are numerous and require a high level of expertise:

• Managing ATA personnel;
• Preparing budgets and financial reports;
• Overseeing school logistics;
• Managing supplier contracts;
• Maintaining an inventory of school property;
• Handling official communications.

How to Become a DSGA: Educational Path and Career

A degree is necessary to qualify for the ordinary competition or for vertical mobility to become a DSGA.
Suitable degrees include law, economics, and political science.

Additionally, individuals with only a high school diploma but ten years of assistant experience may qualify for vertical mobility.

DSGA Recruitment: Competitions and Vertical Mobility

An expected ordinary competition for DSGA positions may commence as early as 2024, involving written and oral assessments.

Vertical mobility allows assistant administrators with the requisite experience to advance to the DSGA role, fostering both career growth and potentially increased salaries.