Ruptly
"With clashes between students and police, this Thursday's march called by the Coordinating Assembly of Students (ACES) ended, in protest against the federal government's budget cuts in education. In the images, protesters can be seen marching around the Palacio de la Moneda, monitored by police officers who subdued and dispersed participants with water jets. The mobilization mainly gathered university students who denounced a potential reduction in resources in key areas such as free education, school infrastructure, and socio-educational support. The participants defended their right to protest and questioned the executive's decisions, stating they were not surprised. "For us, it was not shocking at all, we had understood for a long time that a right-wing government (...) like Kast's government would be repressive, (...) it is not convenient for the Chilean right that the proletariat gets educated," said Antonia Saldivia, a student present at the demonstration. The student also expressed concern about the continuity of free university education in the future, stating that current decisions could impact new generations. "Although we have won several battles and will probably maintain free education until the end of our studies, it is very possible that future generations will not enjoy the same rights," added Saldivia. For its part, the Chilean government has defended the need to adjust public spending on education, arguing that it seeks to "optimize resources" and improve the system's efficiency. The government of José Antonio Kast faces criticism following the leak of budget guidelines that contemplate cuts of up to 15% in educational programs and the possible elimination of student support initiatives. Although the Treasury stated that there are no definitive decisions, opposition sectors and educational organizations warned about the impact that the measures could have on millions of students in Chile."
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