In a resounding call for action, the Ministries of Education from Latin America and the Caribbean have come together to address the challenges posed by the pandemic and chart a course toward educational transformation. Gathered during the Santiago 2024 Education Ministerial in Chile, these authorities have committed to a renewed vision—one that prioritizes sustainable funding, innovation, and inclusivity.
The Declaration of Santiago 2024
At the Extraordinary Meeting of Ministers of Education, held on January 25 and 26, 2024, in Santiago, representatives from 30 countries converged to accelerate progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4)—Quality Education. The resulting “Declaration of Santiago 2024” serves as a compass for regional educational policies, emphasizing three critical axes:
- Reactivation: The pandemic disrupted learning across the region. Ministries of Education pledge to recover what was lost during this challenging period. They recognize that educational reactivation is not merely about catching up but also about adapting to new realities.
- Recovery: The declaration underscores the need to address educational inequalities exacerbated by the pandemic. Vulnerable groups, including those who were left out or prematurely exited the educational system, require targeted support. Ministries commit to reconnection and assistance for all learners.
- Transformation: Beyond recovery, the focus shifts to transformation. Education systems must evolve to meet the demands of the 21st century. Innovative policies, resilient strategies, and adaptive approaches are essential. The declaration acknowledges that education is a fundamental human right—one that contributes to reducing inequalities and strengthening communities.
Financial Sustainability and Inclusive Policies
The Santiago 2024 Declaration emphasizes financial sustainability as a catalyst for achieving SDG4 goals. Ministries recognize that sustainable funding is essential for meaningful progress. Additionally, they commit to addressing both pandemic-related challenges and pre-existing educational issues.
A New Milestone in Regional Cooperation
Claudia Uribe, Director of the UNESCO Regional Multisectoral Office in Santiago, aptly describes this meeting as a new milestone in regional cooperation. The commitment to collective action for recovery, reactivation, and transformation underscores the right to education as a cornerstone of progress.
As Latin America and the Caribbean move forward, this declaration serves as a beacon—a reminder that education is not only about knowledge transfer but also about empowerment, resilience, and hope.
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