Minister Seeks Resolution Ahead of School Start
Esther Niubó, Catalonia's Minister of Education, has announced plans to meet with trade unions this week in an effort to prevent a strike on the first day of the academic year, 8 September 2026. The strike, called by USTEC and CGT unions, threatens to disrupt the start of the 2026-2027 school term. Niubó confirmed the upcoming talks during a press conference outlining key developments for the new academic year. Niubó acknowledged the unions' right to strike but stressed the importance of safeguarding students' right to education. She urged a resolution that ensures as much normality as possible in classrooms.
- The meetings will include unions represented at the sectoral table, which previously agreed on a package of improvements.
- Separate talks will be held with USTEC and CG, the unions that rejected the agreement and are proceeding with strike action.
Despite the planned negotiations, USTEC and CGT maintain their position and say reaching a deal before 8 September appears unlikely.
Expansion of Educational Resources Announced
During the same press conference, Niubó detailed new measures to expand educational resources across Catalonia. These include increased staffing, improved special needs support, and infrastructure upgrades in public schools. The announcements form part of the government's broader strategy to address long-standing union demands over funding and working conditions. However, union leaders say current proposals fall short of resolving core issues.
We respect the right to strike, but we must also protect the right to education," said Niubó. "Our priority is a calm and orderly start to the school year.
Reported by lhdigital.cat, ARA, LHDigital (L'Hospitalet).
