El Salvador’s education system has recently come under scrutiny for its new policies aimed at instilling discipline and order among students. The most notable changes include daily hair and uniform inspections, as well as weekly ‘Civic Monday’ drills. These measures were introduced by the country’s new minister of education, a military captain, who has emphasized the importance of uniformity and obedience in the classroom.
Under the new rules, students are required to maintain short haircuts and wear clean, pressed uniforms. Daily hair checks are conducted by school staff, ensuring compliance with the dress code. Additionally, all students must participate in ‘Civic Monday’ drills, which are designed to promote national unity and civic responsibility. These drills involve exercises and patriotic activities, reinforcing a sense of discipline and patriotism among students.
The implementation of these policies has sparked debate among educators and parents. While some support the measures as a way to create a more structured and disciplined learning environment, others argue that they infringe on students’ personal freedoms and may contribute to a militarized atmosphere in schools. The new education minister, a military captain, has defended the policies as essential for fostering a sense of order and national identity, particularly in the context of the country’s ongoing security challenges.