Argentina's Bold Education Shake-Up: What's Changing?

Argentina is in the midst of a significant education transformation. President Javier Milei's government is pushing for sweeping changes to the country's education system, aiming to give families more control over their children's schooling.

Key Changes Proposed

• Legalizing Homeschooling: A new law could make homeschooling legal and allow parents to have a say in school management.
• Competition Among Schools: The reform encourages schools to compete for students, focusing on basic education (preschool, primary, and secondary).
• University Funding Changes: The current education law from 2006 could be replaced, altering how universities receive funding.

Why the Reform?

The government argues that Argentina's education system is struggling, with poor performance in international tests like PISA (measuring math, reading, and science skills). The system is also criticized for being bureaucratic and uninnovative.

How the System Would Change

• Public-Private Partnerships: Schools could collaborate with businesses to improve education.
• Diverse Schooling Options: Online and homeschooling would be recognized as valid alternatives.
• State's Role: The state would ensure access to education, but families would make key decisions.
• Decentralized Curriculum: Provinces, not the federal government, would decide what is taught, with the federal government setting basic standards.
• Funding Changes: Provinces would fund schools, and the national government would provide direct payments to families. Parents would have a bigger role in evaluating teachers.

Challenges Ahead

• Political Hurdles: The government lacks a majority in Congress and needs support from other lawmakers.
• Public Opposition: Protests are expected, particularly over proposed cuts to university funding.