Background and Relevance of the Figures Involved
Mario Delgado Carrillo, the Secretary of Public Education (SEP), and Mara Lezama Espinosa, the Governor of Quintana Roo, have recently taken significant steps to expand educational opportunities in Benito Juárez, a region known for its tourism and potential for youth development. Their efforts are part of the Nueva Escuela Mexicana (NEM) initiative, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, who has committed to ensuring no student is left without access to education.
Key Actions and Achievements
- Laying the first stone for CBTIS 301 and acknowledging the progress of NEM, despite conservative criticisms.
- Distribution of over 2 million free textbooks to 290,000 basic education students across Quintana Roo.
CBTIS 301 Construction and Impact
In Cuna Maya, Delgado Carrillo and Lezama Espinosa laid the foundation for CBTIS 301, along with CBTIS 293 in Tizayuca, Hidalgo. This new center will provide modern, secure, and inclusive educational spaces for 900 students with advanced technology, laboratories, workshops, and functional furniture. The investment totals 62.5 million pesos.
As part of NEM and the National Bachillerato, CBTIS 301 will offer two certifications: a general bachelor’s degree from SEP and a technical bachelor’s degree supported by higher education institutions like UNAM and IPN.
Free Textbooks Distribution
During the textbook distribution event at Gualberto Salazar Centeno school, Delgado Carrillo emphasized the importance of education as a right and not a privilege. He criticized neoliberal governments for neglecting youth education opportunities and conservative groups for denying their achievements.
The free textbooks, totaling over 170 million copies, aim to ensure every student starts the school year with necessary learning materials. Delgado Carrillo highlighted that these resources support both teachers and parents, enabling students to fully develop their learning from day one.
NEM’s Pedagogical Shift and Complementary Strategies
Delgado Carrillo explained that NEM represents a profound change in the educational model, focusing on values like solidarity, respect, and fraternity. Teachers’ professional autonomy is also emphasized, encouraging interactive teaching and context-adapted learning.
Alongside NEM, the SEP implements holistic well-being strategies, such as the Vive saludable, vive feliz program. This initiative includes health screenings, free glasses, and nutritional follow-ups to create safe, healthy, and equitable learning environments.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Nueva Escuela Mexicana (NEM)? NEM is an educational initiative led by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, aiming to ensure no student is left without access to education and promoting a values-centered pedagogical model.
- What is CBTIS 301? CBTIS 301 is a new technical and vocational high school in Cancún, Quintana Roo, offering modern facilities and advanced technology to benefit 900 students.
- Why are free textbooks crucial? Free textbooks ensure every student has the necessary learning materials at the start of the school year, supporting both teachers and parents in students’ comprehensive development.
- What complementary strategies does SEP implement alongside NEM? SEP implements holistic well-being strategies, such as the Vive saludable, vive feliz program, which includes health screenings, free glasses, and nutritional follow-ups to create safe, healthy, and equitable learning environments.
