Panama suspends afternoon, evening classes for World Cup debut

Panamanian students in afternoon and evening classes will have a day off on June 17, as the Ministry of Education announced the suspension of in-person activities. This decision comes in response to a government decree aimed at rallying national support for the men's soccer team's first match in the 2026 World Cup.

The suspension applies to all official and private educational institutions across the country. The Ministry of Education stated in a communication that the measure is intended to comply with the executive order signed by President José Raúl Mulino. The goal is to foster enthusiasm and passion for the Panamanian national team as they make their World Cup debut on June 17.

While afternoon and evening classes are canceled, morning sessions will proceed as scheduled. The government's decree also includes the closure of public offices starting at 2:00 p.m. on the same day, further emphasizing the nationwide focus on supporting the team's historic match.