Honduras plans extended school day pilot program for 2027

The Honduran Ministry of Education plans to launch a pilot program for extended school days in 2027. According to Education Minister Arely Argueta, the initiative may cover between four and six departments, starting with the Jesús Milla Selva Institute in Tegucigalpa.

The program aims to strengthen academic knowledge while incorporating arts, culture, and sports. Key objectives include reducing school dropout and repetition rates, as well as preventing teenage pregnancy by keeping students in a safe, supervised environment for longer periods.

In preparation, the ministry has been evaluating necessary adaptations to the national curriculum, school infrastructure, and teacher availability. While the proposal has been met with interest, the First Professional College of Honduran Teachers (PRICPHMA) has stated that support for the extension is contingent upon teachers receiving overtime pay for the additional hours worked.