FIDEM Shifts Focus to Schools

Title: FIDEM Funds Redirected for School Infrastructure Enhancement Baja California aims to allocate FIDEM resources towards improving school facilities in marginalized regions, fostering a collaborative effort between the state and business sectors.

Title: FIDEM Funds to Prioritize School Infrastructure Rehabilitation

This Thursday, the Governor of Baja California has announced plans to redirect the Business Trust Fund (FIDEM) towards educational purposes, specifically for the repair and enhancement of school infrastructure. Kurt Honold Morales, the head of the Secretariat of Economy and Innovation of Baja California (SEI), explained that the state is considering revising FIDEM’s guidelines to allocate these resources to improve schools, particularly those located in the most underprivileged areas.

Honold Morales mentioned ongoing discussions with business sector representatives regarding the possible changes in the fund’s operational rules. He emphasized the need for a mutual agreement between the state and private sectors before the 2025 fiscal budget is finalized. “We aim for a consensus where the funds can be channeled into repairing schools that are in dire need of support, especially those in peripheral regions,” he stated.

Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda reiterated her commitment to eliminate FIDEM for resource reallocation to education. “Education is crucial, and removing FIDEM is part of ensuring these resources directly benefit school infrastructure rather than being managed by private bodies,” she asserted.

The enterprise community appears open to exploring this option, recognizing the substantial need for infrastructure upgrades. However, they also stress the importance of ensuring the funds address the city’s strategic projects for broader societal benefits.

Secondary Article: Related News Highlights

1. Future of Immigration Fees at Tijuana Border to Be Decided
The National Institute of Migration (INM) is expected to deliberate on the future of immigration-related charges at the Tijuana checkpoint by December. Discussions center on fee continuations for foreign visitors, as indicated by Kurt Honold Morales.

2. Illegal Detention and Deportations on the Rise
Baja California has seen an increase in reports concerning illegal detentions and deportations at INM stations throughout 2024. Advocates emphasize the need for vigilance and reform to protect migrant rights.

3. Didi & Uber Drivers Face New Regulatory Challenges
A significant portion of approximately 20,000 Didi and Uber drivers are still unregistered, risking fines, as reported by the state’s public transport authority.

4. Hurricane John Relief Initiatives Underway
In response to Hurricane John’s impact, UABC will host collection drives on October 15 and 16 across its campuses to aid affected communities.

5. Breast Cancer Detection Rates Climb in Tijuana
Tijuana reported an 8% increase in breast cancer cases, prompting health officials to highlight the importance of yearly documentation and monitoring strategies for effective disease management.

6. Tijuana Upholds Ban on Narcocorridos
Newly reiterated by Ismael Burgueño, the ban on narcocorridos—a music genre perceived to glorify drug culture—remains firmly in place, with no plans for reconsideration.