Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo Announces Progress on Federal Government’s Plan
During a working visit to Chihuahua, President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo announced that by 2026, a total of 203 Centros de Educación y Cuidado Infantil (CECI) will be completed across the country. These centers are part of the federal government’s goal to build 1,000 such facilities throughout the six-year term.
CECI Progress in Chihuahua
Sheinbaum visited the CECI in Paraje de Oriente, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, which is set to begin operations in the upcoming January. The municipality will have 24 centers, while the entire state is expected to install 62.
Addressing Workers’ Demands
Sheinbaum highlighted that the lack of childcare facilities has been a major demand expressed by maquila workers during previous visits to the municipality. In response, the federal government is promoting a new IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social) daycare system with enhanced safety standards and professional staff.
Distinctive CECI Model
The CECI model aims to differentiate from traditional daycare schemes by incorporating safety criteria, comprehensive care, and specialized personnel. In collaboration with the National DIF system and local authorities, these centers will cater to both IMSS-eligible mothers and those without eligibility.
The facilities feature a central architectural design that allows better visibility and supervision of areas. Additionally, a unique staffing scheme for IMSS personnel has been agreed upon with the union to ensure specific working conditions.
Complementary Programs
Sheinbaum mentioned that these centers complement other federal programs such as Free Centers, the Patriot Weavers Network, and the Women’s Rights Charter, with 250 million copies of which have already been distributed.
IMSS Director’s Statement
Zoé Robledo, General Director of IMSS, stated that there are currently 250 defined plots in the country. He also mentioned that Ciudad Juárez will have centers in colonias such as Gladiolas, Univillas, Municipio Libre, and San Isidro.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the 203 new Centros de Educación y Cuidado Infantil (CECI)? These are specialized early education and child care centers being built by the Mexican federal government to address the demand for quality childcare services.
- Who is Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo? Sheinbaum Pardo is the current Head of Government of Mexico City and represents the Morena party. She has been instrumental in advancing social programs, including early education and child care.
- Why are these CECI centers important? These centers aim to provide safe, high-quality childcare services that support working parents, particularly those employed in maquiladoras (factories along the US-Mexico border). The new model emphasizes safety, professional staff, and comprehensive care.
- How many CECI centers are planned for construction? The federal government aims to build a total of 1,000 CECI centers by the end of the six-year term, with 203 planned for completion by 2026.
- What other programs are these CECI centers complementing? The CECI initiative is part of a broader effort by the Mexican government to support families through various programs, including Free Centers, the Patriot Weavers Network, and the Women’s Rights Charter.
