Overview
- The Ministry of Education circulated a working draft on June 24 that would set maximum pupil-to-educator ratios of 4 for 0–1 years, 6 for 1–2 years and 8 for 2–3 years and roll the limits out from 2027-2028 to full application by 2029-2030.
- The draft adds strict facility and organisational rules for 0–3 centres, including a minimum of three units, at least 2 square metres per child, separate rest and hygiene zones for under-twos, a 30 m² multipurpose room and a 75 m² exclusive playground.
- Unions and educator groups have broadly welcomed the content as a response to months of protests but criticised the slow, multi-year timetable for practical change in classrooms.
- Regional governments and private providers warn the proposal would require large increases in staff, major building upgrades and extra funding, and the ministry’s choice to use a decree could allow executive approval without immediate parliamentary validation.
- If implemented as drafted, the change could shrink class sizes and improve care but also risk centre closures and job shifts in the short term unless the government clarifies the financing, hiring plans and how competencies will be shared with autonomous communities.