Delays in the delivery of school modules after the earthquake in Arequipa cause discontent

The magnitude 7.0 earthquake that struck the Caravelí region in Arequipa has left a trail of challenges and problems for the inhabitants of the area, especially for the students of the most affected educational institutions. Nearly three weeks after the disaster, the lack of classroom modules is a concerning issue that is causing indignation among the educational community and local authorities. The regional Education manager, Cecilia Jarita Padilla, has expressed concern that the distribution of classroom modules has not yet been finalized, despite the efforts and negotiations made by local authorities. This delay has raised questions about the effectiveness of regional management and the alleged lack of interest from the Ministry of Education in addressing this emergency situation. As stated by Jarita Padilla, the National Educational Infrastructure Program (Pronied), under the Ministry of Education, is responsible for delivering the modules to the affected areas. However, the lack of promptness in this process has led to dissatisfaction and criticism from the educational community and local authorities. The regional Education manager has voiced her concern over the delay in the distribution of modules, stating that it is a shared responsibility between the Regional Government of Arequipa and Pronied. She has also requested the removal of the Pronied representative in Arequipa due to this situation, considering it imperative to expedite the delivery of modules to ensure the continuity of classes in the affected educational institutions. Two educational institutions with the most significant impact have been identified: San Pedro School in Yauca and Mochica Baja de Jaquí School 40486, where nearly 300 students have been affected. Additionally, minor damages have been reported in seven other educational facilities, highlighting the extent of the earthquake's impact on the region's education sector. The lack of timely response to address the needs of the affected educational institutions has caused discomfort and concern among the students, teachers, and parents in the area. Uncertainty about the arrival date of the modules and the lack of clear information about the distribution process have created a climate of frustration and mistrust in the educational community. The Regional Government of Arequipa has reported requesting the delivery of five modules for two schools in Bella Unión; however, the exact number of modules required to address all identified needs remains unknown. In light of this situation, local authorities have reiterated their commitment to assisting in the emergency response but have made it clear that it is the responsibility of Pronied and the Ministry of Education to ensure the timely delivery of necessary resources. Amid this emergency situation, students in the affected areas continue to wait for their needs to be addressed so they can safely and adequately resume their classes. The lack of classroom modules poses a significant obstacle to the education of children and young people affected by the earthquake, making it imperative for competent authorities to act promptly and effectively to resolve this issue.