Portugal education funding delay risks special needs support

Thousands of students with special educational needs in Portugal are at risk of losing essential specialized support due to funding uncertainty. The Ministry of Education has yet to disclose the specific budget allocations for the 98 Resource Centers for Inclusion (CRI) for the current school year, despite classes having started a month ago.

Helena Albuquerque, president of Humanitas – Federação Portuguesa para a Deficiência Mental, stated that these centers are vital for the quality of life of these students, providing essential teams of therapists and psychologists. She noted that many centers are unable to perform their fundamental work due to the ministry's inaction. Similarly, Joaquim Pequicho, president of the National Federation of Social Solidarity Cooperatives (Fenacerci), warned that the lack of official communication regarding funding amounts and conditions compromises organizational planning, team stability, and the continuity of support for children and young people.