BRIEFS. Education

Pessimism among teachers

Teachers of the Frente de Acción Magisterial (FAM) demonstrated yesterday on Avenida Justo Arosemena, voicing concerns about the new education reforms and warning that they won't let anybody take them "by surprise." The reforms call for a reduction in courses and materials.

Minister of Education Belgis Castro reiterated his "open policy" to discuss any reforms. Two ordinances, he stated, have been already repealed in order to allow for more time to discuss and review them.

FAM member Andrés Rodríguez was pessimistic. "I have doubts about the government’s ‘good intentions,’" he said, and added, "I will remain vigilant."