The original article requires translation.
To obtain a high school diploma, students must have a minimum English level of A2, according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
This was stated on Monday by the Minister of Public Education, Leonardo Sánchez, within the framework of the launch of the “Hello Brete” platform, which will offer free courses in that language.
Sánchez highlighted that this measure applies from this year, following the approval made by the Higher Education Council, which implies a modification to the Learning Assessment Regulations.
“Here, we’re not trying to promote or have more and more students graduate just for the sake of graduating; no, we have to certify to the country that it has the necessary skills, and English is no exception. That’s why it was said that you no longer pass with an A1, now you pass with an A2, and the idea is that you can achieve a B1 or a B2,” he pointed out.
This means the level of difficulty will increase for those taking the Standardized Tests starting this year. It’s no longer a pilot program, but a mandatory requirement, the minister warned.
“That’s already approved, it comes into effect this year, for those who are going to take the standardized exam or tests, as well as the writing test,” Sánchez emphasized.
Courses as a complement
This Monday, the “Hello Brete” platform was officially launched, which will offer free English courses from Open English.
The above will be carried out through the National Learning Institute (INA), with an investment of up to $74 million over four years.
The minimum age to be eligible for the course is 15 years old, which is why Sánchez believes this represents an opportunity for students to complement the learning they receive in the classroom.
The minister acknowledged that various investments, such as the addition of more English teachers, the integration of technology, investment in software and the use of artificial intelligence, have not been sufficient.
“And, we needed to take a leap forward with a free tool that only requires commitment, in our case, from the student or teacher, discipline, and a desire to learn a second language,” the minister stated.
“We believe that with this we will complement those deficiencies of the education system very well because the teacher’s learning is being trained and reinforced, but the idea is also for the student,” he added.
According to the official, Open English is a solution due to its broad coverage, although the Ministry of Public Education (MEP) will continue to reinforce English learning through teachers and platforms, “so that students who graduate from technical or non-technical schools have a higher level of English.”
The goal is for students to leave school with an acceptable level of English that will allow them to access job opportunities.
share