- Actions to improve the quality and infrastructure of rural education are growing, with international meetings and innovative local projects.
- Teacher commitment and social recognition reinforce the value of teaching in rural settings.
- Challenges such as depopulation and workforce cuts persist, especially in rural areas of Spain.
- New training, internship, and community support programs seek to engage young people and promote rural social and economic development.
Rural education is at the center of the debate on social development, equity, and the future of less densely populated territories. In recent months, various institutional initiatives and meetings have put on the table needs, challenges and proposals to strengthen access to a quality education in rural areas, not only in Spain but also in Latin America.
Organizations such as the UNESCO and the Central American Integration System (SICA) They have brought together ministerial representatives to move towards a common agenda. At the same time, in rural Spain, new educational experiences are emerging and situations are being reported that demand urgent responses, such as the downsizing in schools far from major centers.
International proposals and educational priorities for the rural world
During the last thematic meeting of SICA, organized by the UNESCO In collaboration with the Ministry of Public Education of Costa Rica, ministers and vice-ministers of education from several Central American countries reflected on the advances and challenges of rural education. The meeting focused on how to strengthen the equity and quality to offer more options for a decent life, decent employment and social cohesion in rural communities.
The meeting, held in San José, allowed for the establishment of a agreed course of action which includes promoting the fundamental learnings such as reading, mathematics and citizenship, updating curricula with indigenous and Afro-descendant knowledge, guaranteeing access to digital education and strengthening bilingual intercultural education.
The importance of having the necessary resources was also highlighted. educational information systems more efficient to facilitate decision-making and the management of public policies focused on rural areas. According to Alexander Leicht, from UNESCO, “SICA countries are turning rural education into a strategic lever for local development and resilience facing climate change and structural inequalities.”
Innovative experiences and teacher commitment in rural Spanish schools
Spain shows that rural schools can adapt and promote creativity. An example is the Rural School Villas del Tajo, in Toledo, where active methods and the learning personalization open up new opportunities. The teacher Ernesto Santurino, a finalist for the Educa Abanca Award, has revolutionized teaching through projects that appeal to students' interests and intergenerational collaboration. "Rural schools," she explains, "allow each student to have their own space and become the protagonist of their learning."
This proximity favors the personalized education and connection with the environment, through activities such as visits to local museums or projects based on students' hobbies. The assessment of families and students themselves reflects the priceless value of work in rural classrooms and the positive impact on community development.
At the same time, initiatives such as the Galician Shepherds' School They seek to revitalize traditional trades, attract young people and promote generational integrationPractical training and a commitment to the natural environment are key tools for addressing depopulation and strengthening the rural economy.
Infrastructure and resources: investment versus cuts
The quality of education in rural areas depends largely on the infrastructure and human resourcesIn Huesca, the Provincial Council and the Government of Aragon have launched a multi-year plan With a budget of one million euros per year to modernize rural schools and create safe and stimulating spaces. The program includes the renovation of carpentry, painting, and improvement of playgrounds, benefiting almost 4.000 students in more than twenty locations in Alto Aragón.
Furthermore, the CCOO Teaching Federation in Cantabria denounces the negative impact of the reduction of 39 teaching positions, especially in rural centers and socially disadvantaged areas. Staff reductions force the creation of mixed-sex classrooms and make it difficult to reduce ratios, which affects the quality of education and represents a missed opportunity for improvement.
In addition, there is concern about the possible closure of centers and the need for greater mobilization of the teaching community to defend rural schools and public education in general.
Internships and training: new opportunities for young people in rural areas
The program Rural UCLM, promoted by the University of Castilla-La Mancha and the Regional Board, demonstrates how the paid practices in companies and entities in rural areas they promote the youth roots and enrich training. With more than 300 applications per year and collaboration 270 companies, students value the experience very positively and many receive job offers after their internships.
The initiative, supported by provincial councils, is being implemented in municipalities with fewer than 5.000 inhabitants, allowing for the application of knowledge in different disciplines and bringing the workplace closer to less populated areas. This example of collaboration can be key to combating depopulation and boosting the social and economic development of rural areas.
In Latin America, efforts are also being made to improve educational infrastructure. In Entre Ríos (Argentina), improving electrical and sanitary facilities in rural schools guarantees the right to education and promotes the development of educational activities through targeted investments and medium-term planning.
Rural education is going through a period of significant transformation.A commitment to pedagogical innovation, investment in infrastructure, practical training, content updates, and community participation are essential to ensuring that no territory is left behind. When institutional and local efforts come together, rural schools can be a driving force for integration, identity, and a future for future generations.
