### Baja California Government to Settle 198 Million Pesos Debt to Educators by August 15
The state government of Baja California has committed to paying off a 198 million peso debt to the education sector on August 15, according to Luis Gallego Cortez, the Secretary of Education for Baja California.
A significant portion of the funds, precisely 76,727,826 pesos, will be allocated to summer bonuses for 18,607 basic education workers. Additionally, 1,706,018 pesos will be distributed to 298 higher education employees. The payment for the National Unique Compensation (CNU) will total 72,851,375 pesos, benefiting 16,274 teachers.
The state will also pay out 1,198,000 pesos in Directives Bonuses for 2024, 709,005 pesos in Support and Assistance Personnel Bonuses at 2% and 4%, and 1,063,300 pesos in bonuses for janitorial staff. An additional 33 million pesos will be earmarked for extraordinary payroll from August to December 2023, and 10,769,516 pesos will be allocated for severance payments due to layoffs, resignations, or deaths.
Gallego Cortez shared this detailed breakdown during the government’s weekly morning conference held in Mexicali. He also reminded that basic education classes are set to begin on August 26. Classes for mid-level secondary education institutions such as Cecyte, Cobach, Conalep, and DGETI will start on August 19, following induction courses that began on August 5.
In preparation for the new school year, efforts are underway to install 840 new air conditioning units in schools across Mexicali and San Felipe. So far, approximately 300 units have already been installed, with plans to finish the remainder before the vacation period ends to ensure schools are ready for students.
“We have 29 schools that suffered some form of electrical damage, cable theft, or air conditioning issues. We are prepared to address these problems and replace the necessary equipment,” stated Gallego Cortez.
### Possible Delays in School Year Start if Teacher Debts Remain Unpaid
The beginning of the new school year may face delays if outstanding debts to teachers are not resolved. Members of the Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE) have raised concerns that if the payments are not made in a timely manner, disruptions could occur.
Eduardo Olmos, a CNTE representative, emphasized the urgency of fulfilling the commitments to prevent protests or strikes that could impact the academic calendar.
### Efforts to Improve School Infrastructure
In response to the widespread damages schools experienced, the Baja California government has pledged to continue its efforts to improve educational infrastructure. Approximately 300 new air conditioning units have been installed, with 540 more units to be placed before students return. Schools in areas severely affected by theft and electrical issues will receive priority for repairs and equipment replacement.
Local authorities remain focused on creating a conducive learning environment by rectifying all infrastructure issues promptly, ensuring both teachers and students have a seamless transition as the new academic year begins.
For more updates on educational developments, visit TJGringo.com frequently.
### Additional Updates
In other news, Baja California has seen an increase in reports regarding “phantom companies,” with 24 such entities identified so far. The latest incident involved Hanil Electronics, reported on May 28.
Security measures will be ramped up during the Tijuana Fair 2024, set to begin on August 23, with heightened precautions based on the expected attendance and performing artists.
Baja California also leads nationally in providing mortgage loans to same-sex couples, with 698 credits issued, surpassing Jalisco and Nuevo León.
Moreover, concerns about the lack of checks and balances within the Legislative Power have been voiced by local business leaders, stressing the need for a balanced division of powers to ensure national viability.
Finally, the troubling statistic that 95% of sexual abuse cases are perpetrated by family members or acquaintances emphasizes the urgent need for more robust protective measures and awareness programs.