Criticism of the current educational model
The PSIB-PSOE has raised its voice against the concerns surrounding the upcoming start of the school year, pointing out that the current landscape is full of uncertainties and conflicts affecting schools. The deputy and Secretary of Education of the party, Amanda Fernández, has highlighted the doubts generated by linguistic segregation, an issue that has become the core of the problems that the education system will face this year.
Linguistic segregation: a controversial issue
Fernández has accused the Government of Marga Prohens of maintaining a segregative approach which, according to her, responds to the demands of the VOX party. Despite the fact that this pact should be a thing of the past, the secretary has urged the Government to reconsider its position and to promote a linguistic coexistence that has been a fundamental pillar in the autonomous community for years.
Reactions of the educational community
Society’s reaction was not long in coming, with thousands of people demonstrating against the marginal use of Catalan. In addition, only 11 of the almost 400 centers in the Balearic Islands have agreed to participate in the pilot segregation plan, and none of them are public. The ministry has allocated a significant amount of resources, with 20 million euros this year and 60 million for the next, without its destination having been clarified so far.
Problems with license plates
Another worrying aspect is the uncertainty that families are experiencing in relation to this year’s registrations. Despite the fact that many have chosen their own language, 1,300 families have opted for Spanish and, a few days before the start of the school year, they do not know what options they have, since the Ministry has not provided clear information.
Dismantling of educational services
Fernández has also denounced the drastic reduction of resources in essential services, such as the Institute for Coexistence and School Success, which has seen its staff decrease from seven to five workers, which affects the quality of the service provided. This institute was recognized for addressing crucial issues such as coexistence and bullying.
Repercussions on teacher training
The situation is similar in teacher training centers, where only limited calls have been opened, leaving the directors of Menorca and Ibiza in a disadvantaged position compared to their counterparts in Mallorca.
The future of public education
In addition, the secretary has expressed her concern about the Government’s orientation towards weaker public education, with an increase in support for chartered education. This situation results in a loss of European funds intended for public education, while encouraging the increase of concerts in areas where there are already enough public places.
A start of the year full of uncertainties
The outlook for the new school year is complex, with numerous concerns that affect families, students and schools. The Government’s current policies, which seem to promote discrimination and segregation on grounds of language, gender or socio-economic conditions, leave a feeling of unease and bewilderment in the educational community.
