Mexico's education system in 2025 faces a complex landscape, balancing the need for quality education with increasing access and navigating significant policy shifts. President Claudia Sheinbaum is at the forefront, with key decisions impacting the future of public education.
Key Initiatives and Challenges
Sheinbaum's administration is focused on expanding access to higher education, particularly for underprivileged students. The Universidad del Bienestar Benito Juárez García (UBBJ) is a key project, offering free education in various fields. The application period for the 2025 school year is from June 10-27. However, concerns remain about prioritizing quantity over quality.
A national plan to strengthen upper secondary education includes constructing new high schools and expanding existing ones, aiming to create 38,700 new educational spaces. The plan includes investment of 2,554.5 million pesos. Moreover, over 20 million students will benefit from the new 'Rita Cetina Gutiérrez' universal scholarship in 2025.
The 2025 budget reflects a shift in fiscal strategy, with some cuts in investment alongside expanded social programs. While funding for the Public Education Ministry (SEP) has increased, other areas have seen reductions. It is important to note that Mexico's investment in education and skilled labor development remains below what is needed for competitiveness.