In Mexico, the Education International member organisation is contributing to government efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of teachers and students and the continued provision of schooling.
The Sindicato Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (SNTE), a member organisation of Education International, has launched a media campaign to raise awareness and educate teachers and school communities about COVID-19. It also provides resources on how to adapt to government-declared security measures that have resulted in the closure of schools.
The union website has a page dedicated to the pandemic with numerous resources for parents and students, from health information on how to stay safe, to recreational and cultural activities that can be done at home, as well as resources for teachers who are working remotely. A collection of international materials also helps users to understand the extent of the issue and to be responsible in their daily actions.
“Teaching goes beyond the confines of the classroom, which is why by educating and raising the awareness of our students we can reach every home, every workplace and every public space”, reads a note signed by General Secretary Alfonso Cepeda Salas.
Particular emphasis is placed on the prevention of gender-based violence during this period of social distancing. The union is concerned about a potential increase in the vulnerability of victims during these weeks of confinement, and it sets out a number of measures that should be taken, as well as relevant phone numbers for victim support services.