Colombia Debates Church and Private Contracts with Public Schools

Colombia's Ministry of Education is facing criticism over a draft decree that would allow churches and private entities to participate in public schools. The initiative, announced by Education Minister Viviane Morales, aims to clarify rules for third-party involvement in educational services and school administration. However, the proposal has sparked controversy, with critics fearing increased privatization and concerns about the presence of religious organizations in state institutions.

The government contends that the draft decree seeks to enhance the provision of educational services and establish contracts for experts in educational, administrative, and management matters. The main teachers' union, Fecode, warns that the proposal could lead to the gradual privatization of the system and divert public resources to private operators. The issue also has constitutional implications due to the country's officially secular state.