Paraguay: 54 Schools Unfit for Use in Concepción Amid Structural Crisis

In Concepción, Paraguay, the start of the second academic term is marred by the continued closure of 54 schools due to severe structural deficiencies. The Ministry of Education and Sciences (MEC) previously declared classrooms in 104 institutions unusable in March, forcing educators and students to seek shelter in makeshift spaces like trees, sheds, and chapels. Many parents, concerned about safety, have moved their children to other schools.

Technical verifications identified specific schools requiring urgent intervention. While some municipalities have initiated repair bids, the situation remains dire for many. The use of virtual classes became a temporary measure for some due to the discomfort and danger of attending in person. Now, with 54 schools still unusable, the MEC is scrambling for solutions, considering mobile classrooms and agreements with private universities to use their facilities.

Despite these efforts, students and teachers are still conducting activities in environments unconducive to learning. The hope is that remaining schools will be repaired before the academic year ends. However, without timely improvements, many of these 54 institutions may face class suspensions due to weather or other conditions. The article expresses a strong desire for these schools to be fully operational for the next academic year.