A record that smells like a campaign
Michoacán has a new title: it is the only state in the country that provides financial support to all its students. From primary school to university. It was announced by the Secretary of Education, Mario Delgado, during an event with President Claudia Sheinbaum.
“Michocán is the only state in the country that grants scholarships to all its students,” said Delgado Carrillo.
The figure sounds impressive: more than 827 thousand students receiving one of the ‘Wellbeing’ scholarships. The total investment, according to official accounts, exceeds 5,600 million pesos. Added to that is another 1.8 billion for school maintenance.
The discourse between numbers
Sheinbaum, from Morelia, mixed the announcement with his usual narrative. He spoke of principles, of a Mexico that “is not for sale” and of putting an end to “36 years of neoliberal governments.” A familiar script.
“Your President is very clear about her principles and Mexico does not sell out, it does not give up,” he assured.
Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla was not far behind. He thanked the ‘Plan Michoacán’ and called it “a global example.” Meanwhile, the Secretary of Women, Citlalli Hernández, released the phrase of the day: “Mexico has the best President in the world.”
Here is what is not said in the official statement: Why did only Michoacán achieve this universal coverage? Is it a model to be replicated or an exception conveniently located in a key state? The questions float among the cheers.
The justification offered is the same as always: keep young people in the classrooms and away from other paths. A laudable goal, without a doubt. But one can’t help but notice the perfect timing and setting chosen for this record-breaking announcement.
The numbers are on the table. The rhetoric too. The next time you hear ‘unique in the country’, remember to ask yourself: unique by merit or unique by design?
