The mobilization, called by various platforms under the slogan ‘Let's Save Public Education’, began at 12:00 PM in Atocha and proceeded through the city center to Puerta del Sol, in front of the Real Casa de Correos, headquarters of the regional government.
“"The university is not for sale, the university must be defended!"
Organizers pointed out structural problems in the educational system, such as a lack of resources, teacher overload, and the deterioration of various services. They also denounced the reduction of administrative staff, increased classroom ratios, and working conditions characterized by low salaries and long hours.
In the field of Vocational Training, difficulties in accessing internships were highlighted, while in special education, deficiencies affecting students with specific needs were noted. Furthermore, the demonstration emphasized the underfunding of Madrid's universities, a situation that, according to protesters, has persisted for over a decade.
The conveners argue that the increase in educational demand has not been matched by a proportional reinforcement of resources, leading to considerable pressure on the system in terms of staff, infrastructure, and services. The protest coincided with the indefinite strike of early childhood educators, whose demands include salary improvements, equal working conditions, and increased funding for centers.
The organizing bodies concluded the march by calling on citizens to defend public education as an essential pillar of social development and warned that they would maintain mobilizations in response to what they consider a continuous process of system deterioration.
