More than 100 artisans attended a meeting organized by the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture to discuss the initial process for purchasing school uniforms for the Costa 2026–2027 academic year. The event took place at Unidad Educativa Portoviejo and included participation from Zonal Coordinator Maximiliano Núñez, officials from the Administrative Education Secretariat, and representatives of the Institute of Popular and Solidarity Economy (IEPS).
During the session, new technical guidelines were presented regarding the manufacturing, design, and procurement of school uniforms for the upcoming school year.
“This is a process that is based on principles of equity and transparency. Our commitment is to deliver school kits before classes begin, scheduled for May 4th, ensuring that our students receive free school uniforms on time,” said Zonal Coordinator Maximiliano Núñez.
Each kit will include three round-neck t-shirts, one warm-up sweatshirt, and two pairs of warm-up pants.
The program aims to benefit 193,654 students in total—153,062 in Manabí province and 40,592 in Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas—with a focus on students from rural areas and vulnerable sectors.
The ministry is conducting this process through its Public Procurement portal. This allows registered artisans and associations to produce the uniforms locally. As a result, local employment opportunities are created while supporting community-based economic activity.
According to ministry statements, these actions are intended to promote inclusive education by providing not only access but also appropriate conditions for children’s continued attendance in schools.
