Ecuador begins 2026-2027 school year for 1.7 million students

The Sierra-Amazonía school year 2026-2027 begins on September 1 in Ecuador, with approximately 1.7 million students returning to classrooms through a staggered entry model. The Ministry of Education, Sport and Culture (MINEDEC) has implemented this phased approach across three days to manage the influx of students into over 6,700 public institutions.

To combat school dropout rates, the Ecuadorian government has allocated USD 136.26 million toward educational resources, prioritizing rural and vulnerable areas. The “Todos al Aula” program has reportedly helped over 160,000 children and adolescents reintegrate into the school system. Additionally, educational programs for youth and adults remain active, with 242,000 enrollments recorded in the previous period.

Despite these efforts, challenges remain, as an estimated 450,000 children and adolescents in the region remain outside the national education system due to economic, social, and security factors. To manage the return, the Metropolitan Transit Agency in Quito has deployed 586 agents to assist with mobility near schools. Parents are also reminded of their rights regarding school requirements, such as the freedom to purchase uniforms and supplies from any vendor.