A report by this newspaper reveals figures on student dropouts that warn of the need for urgent attention to this problem. The lack of opportunities is rooted in the lack of education, and with it the social and economic decline of individuals and countries.

The economic crisis and insecurity have an effect on leaving the classroom, fewer young people are studying this year than in 2014.

The figures – highlighted in the article, which downloads the latest data from the Ministry of Education – show a systematic decline from 2014, when the total student population (from primary education to secondary school) was 4,728,582, to 4,259,502 this year, which means a 10 percent decrease in numbers student.

Governments must view education as an investment and avoid school dropouts. The development of nations is related to the knowledge and professionalization of their activities. Studies developed in the region ensure, for example, that the country receives an average return of 7 dollars for every dollar invested in early childhood.

Next Sunday, October 15, the President of the Republic will be elected in Ecuador, who will finish the term for which Guillermo Lasso was elected until 2025, which he determined by the decree of death on the cross. It is important to know the educational plans of the finalist candidates Daniel Noboa and Luisa González, not only at the higher level discussed, but also from the initial cycle.

Apart from the fact that the presidential election period is short, school dropouts have their roots in economic problems, insecurity and even the COVID-19 pandemic, which governments must attack. The first two are mentioned in the campaign.

The coastal provinces where the number of students decreased the most this year are Esmeraldas, Los Ríos, Guayas and Santa Elena. They coincide with those that record a high frequency of violence.

Prepared people will be able to make better decisions and have a better future. It is time to mark education as a political priority. (OR)