The Ministry of Education of Guatemala has established new regulations for the civic torches that will take place during the celebrations of the 205th anniversary of Independence. These guidelines aim to ensure the safety of students and proper planning of activities.
The circular, signed on September 2, 2026, stipulates that the civic torches must be organized in a “planned, safe, and without unnecessary extension” manner. The measures aim to promote patriotic values while protecting the physical integrity of the participating students.
Educational authorities, including departmental directors and supervisors, will be responsible for ensuring the well-being of students. Parents or guardians will be required to provide written authorization for minors to participate.
Each educational institution conducting a civic torch must register participants using a form to be completed via a QR code attached to the circular. This document will include a list of students, the number of teachers accompanying them, and a description of the route.
Schools must also keep signed permissions from families and maintain an updated record of who has authorization. During the activity, students must be identified and under the supervision of teachers or trained personnel.
The Ministry has emphasized the need to consider weather conditions and other risks, such as natural disasters. The use of sunscreen and proper hydration is recommended, in addition to preventing students from engaging in activities that exceed their physical capabilities.
Transportation for these activities must meet safety standards and include a first aid kit. Students are prohibited from handling fuels or flammable materials; these will only be managed by designated teachers.
Moreover, the use of water bags during the celebrations has been prohibited to avoid incidents, following negative incidents in past celebrations.
In Jutiapa, the Departmental Education Directorate has banned the organization of torches in all educational institutions in the department, aiming to protect the life and integrity of the youth. Additionally, in Guatemala City, El Obelisco will not be a lighting point this year, with the aim of decentralizing celebrations and preventing acts of violence.
The new regulations will apply between 06:00 and 18:00 on September 14, in an effort to avoid vandalism that, according to authorities, usually occurs at night.
Source: www.infobae.com
