Paraguay Government Scholarships: Denunciations of Late Payments and Unequal Treatment

Students in Paraguay's government scholarship program are expressing outrage over what they describe as recurring irregularities in payment disbursements. The National Youth Secretariat (SNJ), led by Salma Agüero, is reportedly responsible for significant delays and unequal distribution of funds meant to cover university expenses.

This year, after extensive protests and two months of waiting, students dependent on the SNJ received only half of their scholarship payment. This disbursement occurred on a Friday, which was also a public holiday. Many students noted that this delay exclusively affected their group, while beneficiaries from other entities received their full payments on time.

Scholarship amounts vary based on the students' field of study, with priority courses receiving G. 10 million annually and others G. 6 million. However, students report receiving either half or less of these amounts in the initial payment, with the remainder expected later. Beyond payment issues, students also complain about poor communication and alleged mistreatment by SNJ staff. They describe difficulties in submitting paperwork and receiving explanations for the payment delays.