In Peru, the education system is heavily impacted by gang-related violence and extortion. Criminals are demanding large sums of money from schools, threatening violence against educators and students. Administrators report that gangs have sent messages and photos of weapons to intimidate them. With over 1,000 schools allegedly being blackmailed and some forced to switch to online formats, there are concerns about the long-term implications on educational accessibility and safety in the country, especially in impoverished areas.
These are not empty threats. A few weeks ago, police arrested a teenager, in the pay of a criminal gang, as he planted a bomb at the entrance to the school.
Miriam Ramirez, president of one of Lima's largest parent-teacher associations, says at least 1,000 schools are being blackmailed.
They send us messages saying they know where we live. They send us photos of grenades and pistols.
If this keeps up, the country is going to end up in total ignorance.
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