Cochabamba Parents Demand Early Holidays or Virtual Classes Amid Health Concerns

COCHABAMBA, Bolivia – Parents in Cochabamba are expressing significant concern over the Ministry of Education's decision not to advance the winter school holidays, despite a declared national health risk. They are calling for immediate action, including the possibility of transitioning to virtual classes, to safeguard students' health. Ernesto Suarez, President of the Association of Parents of Private Schools, voiced the collective worry. "We, the parents, are extremely concerned about this situation, and we will insist," Suarez stated. "Today, I will continue discussions with the Minister and other ministries so that we can address this matter meticulously, because we cannot discriminate. If a national health emergency is declared, preventative measures must be national, not regional." Parents highlight the prevalence of various illnesses, including measles, chickenpox, and hepatitis, which have seen positive cases reported in central Cochabamba. Additionally, they point to the low temperatures announced by SENAMHI (National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology) as another factor posing a risk to students attending in-person classes. The parents propose a shift to virtual or hybrid learning as a preventive measure, asserting it is the only way to protect their children if the pedagogical break schedule remains unchanged. They urge national authorities to consider these health and environmental factors comprehensively.