Mendoza government defends US$ 11,000 reimbursement for minister's master's degree

The Mendoza provincial government has defended the decision to reimburse Jimena Latorre, the Minister of Energy and Environment, approximately US$ 11,000 (13.6 million pesos) for a virtual master's degree in Environmental Economics from Universidad Francisco Marroquín.

Minister Latorre stated that the reimbursement is “legal and ethical,” noting that she initially paid for the program with her own funds. The money was sourced from the Hydrocarbon Activities Trust (Fideicomiso de Actividades Hidrocarburíferas), which is managed by Mendoza Fiduciaria and funded by corporate contributions rather than the general provincial budget. Latorre argued that the virtual format was necessary due to her professional obligations.

Natalio Mema, the Minister of Government, Infrastructure, and Territorial Development, also supported the expenditure. Mema argued that specialized training is essential for officials to effectively promote provincial investments and manage complex bilateral meetings. He emphasized that using specific funds designated for institutional strengthening and training is a valid tool for improving public management performance.