FundaRedes reports severe crisis in Venezuelan public schools

A new report from the non-governmental organization FundaRedes has highlighted a severe deterioration in Venezuela's public education system. Released at the end of the school year by organization president Javier Tarazona in the Táchira state, the study reveals that 80% of children attending public schools are suffering from malnutrition. Tarazona explicitly stated that the national school feeding program is non-functional, leaving students without adequate support.

The crisis is deeply rooted in the broader economic collapse that occurred between 2014 and 2022, during which time Venezuela's GDP shrank by approximately 80% due to declining oil production. Despite minor economic improvements in recent years, approximately 70% of households in the country still live in poverty. Beyond physical health issues, the report also identified a troubling increase in suicidal ideation among children and youth, alongside a critical shortage of qualified teaching staff.

The document underscores that the decay of public services, particularly in border regions like Táchira, continues to exacerbate the vulnerability of the younger generation. The findings illustrate the long-term impact of the country's profound economic instability on the fundamental right to education and well-being for Venezuelan students.