68 schools in Colombia's Valle del Cauca unsafe to reopen after earthquake

In the aftermath of a significant earthquake in Colombia's Valle del Cauca, a critical challenge has emerged: ensuring the safe return of students to school. A recent assessment by the regional government reveals that 68 educational institutions are not equipped with the necessary safety conditions to resume in-person classes.

Nancy Arango Constaín, the Secretary of Education for Valle del Cauca, stated that a characterization process is underway, involving the Ministry of Education and school rectors. This process aims to assess infrastructure, facilities, and connectivity at educational institutions. So far, 123 out of 148 institutions have been assessed, allowing for a traffic light system indicating their readiness: red, yellow, or green.

The partial report indicates a stark reality: 68 schools are deemed unsafe for reopening, 32 require minor adjustments, and only 20 are fully prepared. In response, the Secretariat of Education is exploring various options, including virtual classes and educational guides for home-based learning, to mitigate the disruption.

"Our technical teams are working intensely to determine which modality of schooling will be implemented in each school," Arango Constaín explained. She also highlighted that school directors have autonomy to develop strategies based on local conditions and the extent of earthquake damage. The final diagnosis is expected soon, with immediate implementation of measures, potentially including a shift to virtual learning in some areas. The secretary assured that students are not currently out of school, but rather in a waiting period with engaged teachers.