The Hospital General de Macas introduced the Programa de Aulas Hospitalarias in partnership with the Ministry of Education and under an agreement with the Ministry of Public Health, according to a May 4 announcement. The initiative is designed to ensure that pediatric patients continue their education during hospitalization, preventing academic delays and supporting inclusive and humanized learning.
So far in 2026, a total of 246 children have benefited from this program at the Macas hospital. The professionals involved help maintain the intellectual and academic abilities of hospitalized children, providing timely support so they can return to their regular schools after discharge.
The activities offered by this program also contribute to the emotional well-being of young patients by keeping their educational development on track during recovery. Carmen Chacha, a teacher in the Programa de Aulas Hospitalarias, said: “Mi experiencia ha sido profundamente significativa. Este trabajo me ha permitido crecer como profesional y ser humano, fortaleciendo mi vocación de servicio y compromiso con una educación inclusiva y empática. Cada vivencia me ha enseñado el valor de acompañar a los estudiantes en su aprendizaje y en momentos difíciles.”
Children participating in these educational activities reportedly show enthusiasm for continuing their studies while hospitalized. For them and their families, this opportunity helps them stay current with academics and return to school on equal footing after recovery.
Since 2024, educational attention has been provided through these classrooms to 458 children and adolescents hospitalized in pediatrics at the facility. The Ministry of Public Health said it remains committed to coordinated efforts that guarantee comprehensive care for children in Morona Santiago.
