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Early Childhood Literacy as a Pillar for the Future of Mexico

Subnational ministries for Education collaborate to strengthen fundamental learning for children in Mexico alongside Instituto Natura and UNESCO.
Una niña lee un libro infantil

One in three third-grade students in the country cannot comprehend what they read, highlighting the need to reinforce early literacy and ensure quality education from the earliest school years.

On November 6, 2024, Instituto Natura México hosted a roundtable discussion titled "Reading to Learn: An Essential Policy." This pivotal space for analysis and reflection focused on the importance of literacy and learning in childhood as a foundation for the integral development of future generations.

The event featured secretaries, undersecretaries, and representatives from allied states, including Coahuila, Campeche, Guanajuato, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas, who shared their experiences and proposals regarding education in their regions.

Titulares de Secretarías de Educación e integrantes de los equipos del Instituto Natura y de la UNESCO en México

The primary goal was to discuss the Fundamental Learning Policy, an initiative Instituto Natura has been developing in collaboration with these states to strengthen the teaching of reading and writing skills in early childhood. This policy ensures that all children receive quality education from their first years of life, laying the groundwork for academic success and personal development.

Karina Stocovaz, Director of Instituto Natura Hispanic America, attended the roundtable, offering her perspective on the importance of a regional and holistic approach to early literacy.

Andrés Morales, Head of the UNESCO office, highlights that "proficiency in reading and writing is crucial for children's development and societal progress."

A highlight of the event was the presentation by Felipe Martínez Rizo, whose lecture, "Reading to Learn: An Essential Policy," focused on the central theme of the meeting. He emphasised "the importance of teaching children to read during the optimal stage of development when the brain is most receptive to stimuli and learning, ensuring a lasting and positive impact on their academic and professional futures."

Niña escribiendo

UNESCO also shared the results of the 2023–2024 school year in states currently implementing the Fundamental Learning Policy. The data showed significant progress in states that have worked collaboratively to continuously improve educational processes, regularly evaluating outcomes with specific tools.

Silvia Ojeda, Director of Instituto Natura México, stated that "these joint efforts are helping to consolidate the PAF, aiming to ensure that children in Mexico have better access to learning, which, in turn, will provide greater opportunities for their personal and professional development in the future."

This collaboration between authorities from various federal entities underscores the importance of education as a shared priority. The partnership between these states and Instituto Natura exemplifies how joint efforts and political will can create effective educational solutions that transform children's lives in Mexico. Educational policy can become a driving force for societal change when the common good is a priority.

Niñas y niños en un patio escolar

This dialogue among authorities is just one of many initiatives by Instituto Natura to consolidate the Fundamental Learning Policy. This policy is one of the most significant measures to improve education in Mexico and ensure that all children, regardless of their social background, have equal opportunities to grow and learn.

The success of initiatives like this is undoubtedly a crucial step toward the continuous improvement of education in Mexico, establishing the Fundamental Learning Policy as a factor in creating a more just, equitable country with greater opportunities for all.