Panama parents demand urgent school repairs amid health and safety concerns

Parents at the Pedro J. Sosa school in Panama City are demanding urgent action to address the dire conditions at the 750-student facility. They cite unsanitary environments that pose significant health risks, including damaged roofs from strong winds and a single functioning bathroom for the entire student body. The school's surroundings are also plagued by pigeon droppings, garbage, and the presence of homeless individuals, leading to reported infections and respiratory problems among children.

Parents are calling on the Ministry of Education (Meduca) to cut through bureaucracy and allow the school's director to quickly access funds from the Education Equity and Quality Fund (FECE). They have rejected the idea of relocating students and have threatened to close the school if their concerns are not addressed. A Ministry of Health (Minsa) report from July 20 confirmed the poor conditions, noting bad odors, falling ceilings, rusted structures, and droppings in classrooms. Minsa recommended students and staff stay away during fumigation and restoration.

The school's director stated that repairs are the Ministry of Education's responsibility, with only six classrooms equipped with air conditioning currently usable. For other students, a staggered afternoon class schedule is planned. However, parents oppose this due to safety concerns at the rear of the school, where they report black water and the presence of homeless people. They insist that education authorities, including the minister, visit the site to guarantee a safe and dignified learning environment.

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Yo no voy a arriesgar a mi hijo en la parte de atrás