Santa Cruz student resource distribution programs

Educational authorities in Santa Cruz have implemented several initiatives to support students through the distribution of various resources.

Initially, the province focused on pedagogical materials. Under the Provincial Literacy Plan Plen@ and the national ‘Libros para Aprender’ program, primary students received textbooks for Language, Mathematics, and literature. Additionally, the Directorate of Educational Quality Planning distributed approximately 26,000 mathematics books for first-year secondary students in various school types, provided in both physical and digital formats.

Following these academic efforts, the provincial government announced the EduActiva program. This initiative involves the distribution of 40,000 pairs of Topper brand sneakers to students in initial, primary, and special education cycles to promote physical activity and combat sedentary lifestyles. Governor Claudio Vidal stated that the program is a result of public-private collaboration involving various companies, including those in the oil sector. The program also aims to alleviate the economic burden on families.

Registration for the current distribution is scheduled to begin this Friday at all public primary schools, kindergartens, rural schools, and special education centers, with the process expected to take place simultaneously across the province for one week. To avoid stigmatization, the Provincial Council of Education clarified that the sneakers will not feature any provincial government logos, stamps, or institutional markings. Looking ahead, the government plans to expand the program in 2027 to include secondary school students, increasing the total distribution to 93,000 pairs of shoes twice a year.