The president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, revealed the launch of a scholarship program for vocational, university, and technical studies aimed at "all young people" in the country. During the presentation of a program for about 15,000 young people as part of the phase of "integration" of the government security plan, Bukele stated: "We are launching this scholarship program while also announcing a scholarship program that benefits all young people in El Salvador, with the only requirement being to achieve good grades, complete the training process, and do community work."
The president did not specify the number of beneficiaries or the costs of the program, but emphasized that "the soft hand of the Government is the one that will ensure that you have opportunities." Bukele also mentioned that internationally his government is recognized for its toughness against crime, but highlighted the importance of having a "soft and friendly hand" with young people who seek to improve.
El Salvador has been under a state of emergency since March 2022, instituted following an increase in violence that journalistic investigations link to the breakdown of a pact between the Government and gangs. This measure has resulted in the detention of more than 85,000 people, of whom at least 8,000 could be innocent, according to Bukele. The regime has become the main strategy of the Government against gangs, allowing for Bukele's immediate re-election, despite being prohibited by the Constitution.
On the other hand, humanitarian organizations have received reports of human rights violations, such as arbitrary detentions and torture, as well as reports of about 340 deaths of detainees under state custody, most showing signs of violence. These figures reflect the complex situation in El Salvador, where the Government seeks to balance tough measures against crime with educational support initiatives for young people.
