The federal government, under the presidency of Claudia Sheinbaum, intends to implement measures in public schools in Mexico that encompass both the attention to the mental health of students and the extension of school hours to meet the needs of parents. During the presentation of the "National Strategy Live Healthy" at the facilities of the Ministry of Public Education (SEP), Sheinbaum announced that plans are in place to have mental health professionals visit schools to address potential issues in children.
Regarding the extended hours, the president mentioned that the possibility of implementing it in those schools where necessary and as decided by parents is being considered. These measures mark a change from the decision by former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador to eliminate the 'Full-Time Schools' program in 2022, which extended the school day to promote additional learning and provided meals for students.
Sheinbaum has shown her commitment to strengthening education and continuing social programs implemented during López Obrador's administration, such as "La Escuela es Nuestra" and support for students through programs like Well-Being for Girls and Boys and My Scholarship to Start. Additionally, the elimination of junk food sales in schools has been approved as part of efforts to promote healthy eating habits.
In addition to these measures, work is underway to implement the "Live Happy" strategy, which aims to prevent diseases such as diabetes among the child population. In this context, the visit of mental health professionals to all schools in the country is envisioned as a future action of the strategy. This comprehensive approach to the health and well-being of students reflects the Mexican government's commitment to promoting a favorable school environment for the comprehensive development of children and adolescents.
