The FP bloc deputies’ spokesperson, José David Báez, requested in a press conference in Santiago Oeste that the Government declare an educational emergency in the Santiago province, pointing out that numerous schools present severe deficiencies that hinder the start of the school year.
Problems threatening school continuity
Báez cited the Rafaela Jiminián de Cruz school, which has been out of service for 16 months due to intervention works that have not yet been completed, leaving 780 students without the possibility of starting classes. The deputy described the situation as “improvisation” and demanded the publication of technical studies that justify the delay.
A broader panorama in Santiago Noroeste
The legislator recalled that the lack of seats, overcrowded classrooms, stalled works, structural problems, and dependence on mobile classrooms and provisional teachers affect several centers in the northwest zone and other areas of the province. Among the affected schools are the Emma Balaguer school, the Teresa Silverio school, the Carmelo Sandoval liceo, the Cruzada del Amor school, and the Club Noel.
Reaction of the provincial governor
Báez questioned the statements of the provincial governor, Rosa Santos, about the conditions at the Rafaela Jiminián de Cruz school and demanded the public presentation of the studies that support her comments.
Budget and planning
The deputy pointed out that, although the Ministry of Education has a budget of RD$333,000 million, the current difficulties could have been foreseen and solved with proper planning. “Let the province of Santiago be declared in a state of educational emergency and let them take the bull by the horns,” he concluded.
Support from community leaders
Altagracia González, a member of the FP’s Political Direction, and Hipólito Martínez, along with other community leaders from Santiago, supported the urgent intervention request by the educational authorities.
Credits: n.com.do
