Quintana Roo, Mexico — The Secretary of Education of Quintana Roo (SEQ) and the System for the Integral Development of the Family (DIF) have signed a cooperation agreement to combine efforts and resources for the efficient and effective implementation of the School Feeding Program in basic education institutions.
The agreement, part of the New Agreement for the Well-being and Development of Quintana Roo promoted by Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa, prioritizes high-quality, humanistic, transformative, and solidarity-driven education, particularly for children, adolescents, and youth in need.
A Commitment to Reducing Inequalities
The initiative aims to coordinate measures that enhance social assistance policies, improving living conditions for beneficiaries and reducing inequalities.
In her remarks, Secretary of Education Elda Xix Euán emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating, “The formalization of this agreement represents a conscientious, heartfelt, and ethical commitment to support youth and children who lack access to a hot meal at home.”
She added, “We are pleased to witness the signing of this agreement with DIF, uniting actions in favor of those most in need. It is invaluable for a child to receive a hot meal today.”
Xix Euán noted the importance of reaching underserved rural areas, which had long been neglected. She credited the collaboration with DIF and Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa’s leadership for expanding the program’s reach.
Transition from Cold to Hot Meals
The agreement outlines a joint commitment to transition from cold to hot meals in schools, identifying eligible institutions based on infrastructure, available space, operational feasibility, and priority needs in marginalized areas.
The program will primarily serve children and adolescents attending public schools in municipalities, rural communities, or indigenous areas with high marginalization or social disadvantage. Additionally, schools with a malnutrition rate of 15% or higher among students will receive priority, regardless of marginalization levels.
Once the primary target population is covered, the program may expand to include additional educational institutions to broaden the reach of hot meal services.
A Step Toward Equal Opportunities
Xix Euán stressed the broader goal of reducing social inequality gaps, a key objective of Governor Lezama Espinosa’s administration. She acknowledged the challenges faced by students who attend school without proper nutrition, underscoring the program’s role in fostering equal opportunities.
The agreement marks a significant step in addressing food insecurity in Quintana Roo’s education system, ensuring that vulnerable students receive essential nutritional support.
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