Santa Catarina expands special education and social protection funding

The state of Santa Catarina has expanded its support for special education through the ‘Programa Gente Especial’. Launched by Governor Jorginho Mello in 2024, the initiative establishes long-term partnerships with specialized institutions. The program projects R$ 1.6 billion in funding over five years, with state transfers increasing from R$ 243.4 million in 2023 to R$ 376.3 million in 2026.

Additionally, the state has implemented a pioneering social protection model for small municipalities with fewer than 20,000 inhabitants. Supported by a R$ 20 million investment, the program funds psychologists and social workers to assist victims of abuse and abandonment in 144 municipalities that lack local specialized centers.

In cultural news, the ‘Santa Catarina Canta’ Brazilian music festival will hold its grand final on November 8 in Florianópolis. The event will feature regional finalists and national performers, including Fernando e Sorocaba and Sérgio Reis, accompanied by the Camerata Florianópolis.