Ecuador strengthens school prevention measures for El Niño

Ecuador's national government is intensifying preventive measures in schools to address the potential impacts of the El Niño phenomenon. The Ministry of Education, Sport, and Culture is spearheading these actions, focusing on risk reduction, protecting the educational community, and ensuring the continuity of classes during emergencies.

For 2026, the government has earmarked over $1.3 million for prevention, mitigation, and preparedness efforts. The plan involves interventions in 264 educational institutions, the acquisition of equipment to combat floods, and sanitation and prevention activities within school grounds. These interventions include repairs to roofs, addressing leaks, pipes, gutters, and drainage systems, as well as waterproofing measures.

Minister of Education, Sport, and Culture Gilda Alcívar emphasized that the allocated resources aim to safeguard students, teachers, and families. The government's objective is to preempt risks and guarantee that education can proceed uninterrupted despite potential adverse events. The plan also includes $310,000 for flood mitigation kits, such as motor pumps, high-pressure washers, and electric generators, which will be distributed to high-risk areas.

Preventive actions are also being carried out directly at educational facilities, with institutions organizing cleanup drives to clear drains and remove debris, thereby preventing water accumulation. The Ministry is coordinating with the Ministry of Public Health to prevent vector-borne diseases. The strategy has gained increased relevance following the change in alert status from Yellow to Orange in several provinces, cantons, and parishes, prompting the Ministry to enhance its monitoring efforts.

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The resources allocated for prevention aim to protect students, teachers, and families. The government's objective is to prevent risks and ensure that education continues in the face of possible adverse events.