Educational Sector in the Balearic Islands: Ongoing Debates and Unresolved Issues

In the Balearic Islands, the educational sector is grappling with several contentious issues that have sparked intense debates and criticisms, particularly from the teachers' union, UOB Ensenyament. Here are some of the key points that have been at the forefront of these discussions.

Reservation of Places in Vocational Training

During the ordinary session of the Mesa Sectorial d’Educació (Educational Sectorial Table) held on January 22, 2025, UOB Ensenyament raised significant concerns about the proposed regulation for admission and enrollment in vocational training programs. One of the main points of contention was the reservation of 50% of the places in each group for students from the same educational center. UOB Ensenyament argued for the suppression of this rule, citing that it restricts the free choice of studies and could be discriminatory, as it may prioritize continuity at the same center over genuine interest in the studies offered[1].

The Conselleria (Regional Ministry of Education) defended this policy, stating that it was requested by the educational centers themselves to allow students to continue their studies at the same institution. However, UOB Ensenyament remains unconvinced, highlighting that this policy is not supported by existing national or regional regulations.

Language Policy and Autonomy of Educational Centers

Another contentious issue is the language policy in vocational training. UOB Ensenyament has vehemently opposed the inclusion of provisions in the project that could undermine the use of Catalan as the vehicular language in education. The union argued that these provisions, which allow for the modification of existing language policies, are not legally justified and could lead to a diminution of Catalan in the educational system. They referenced various laws and decrees, such as the Law 3/1986 on linguistic normalization in the Balearic Islands, which emphasize the importance of Catalan in education[1].

The Conselleria's response was that the legal framework allows for such modifications, but UOB Ensenyament dismissed this argument, accusing the current government of continuing policies that undermine the Catalan language, similar to those initiated by former President José Ramón Bauzá.

Verification of Student Competencies

UOB Ensenyament also questioned the process for verifying that students possess the necessary communicative, personal, and social skills to succeed in vocational training. They sought clarification on who would be responsible for these verifications and whether this task would be remunerated. The Conselleria did not provide a clear answer, leaving the union concerned that these additional responsibilities would fall on the same departments without adequate compensation[1].

Permits and Leaves for Teaching Staff

The union has been pushing for clearer regulations regarding permits and leaves for teaching staff. They requested that interim staff be granted non-remunerated leave days, similar to those enjoyed by permanent staff, and sought clarification on the regulation of remunerated permits. The Conselleria promised to address these issues in a follow-up meeting but did not provide a specific timeline, leading to frustration among the union members[1].

Oposiciones 2025 and Other Administrative Issues

UOB Ensenyament inquired about the expected dates for the 2025 oposiciones (competitive exams for public sector jobs), with the Conselleria indicating that a meeting would be convened in early February to discuss this. The union also pressed for updates on other pending issues, such as licenses for studies and the facilitation of telepresence for sectorial meetings, particularly for representatives from the islands of Menorca and Eivissa[1].

Future CIFP in Ciutadella and Linguistic Segregation Plan

The union expressed concerns about the future CIFP (Centro Integrado de Formación Profesional) to be located in the old Maritime Station in Ciutadella. They questioned the allocation of resources and the involvement of private entities like the Escola d’Hoteleria de les Illes Balears (EHIB) and the Servei d’Ocupació de les Illes Balears (SOIB). The Conselleria clarified that the project is funded by the ecotax and denied any plans to cede space to EHIB, contrary to earlier statements by the Director General of Tourism, Josep Aloy[1].

Additionally, UOB Ensenyament reiterated its demand for the immediate withdrawal of the Linguistic Segregation Plan, which they believe is part of a broader effort to undermine the Catalan language. The Conselleria deferred this issue to the next meeting with the Minister of Education and Universities, Antoni Vera.

In summary, the educational sector in the Balearic Islands is facing a series of challenges and controversies, with UOB Ensenyament at the forefront of advocating for the rights of students and teachers. The ongoing debates highlight the complex interplay between educational policy, linguistic rights, and administrative transparency.