El Salvador has inaugurated the II International Congress on the National Educational Model: Higher Education 2026, bringing together the country’s 45 higher education institutions, representatives from the private sector, international organizations, and academic experts from Argentina and Mexico to discuss the future of higher education in an era of rapid technological change.
During the opening, Minister of Education Karla E. Trigueros reaffirmed El Salvador’s commitment to internationalization, academic cooperation, open science, and the creation of global knowledge networks. She described the congress as a strategic opportunity to exchange experiences with other nations while showcasing the country’s ongoing transformation of its education system.
The minister emphasized that advances in artificial intelligence, automation, and evolving labor market demands are reshaping education worldwide, making it essential for universities to prepare graduates with creativity, critical thinking, leadership, and strong ethical values. She noted that these changes require higher education institutions to continuously modernize their academic programs and teaching methodologies.
Trigueros also highlighted that the initiatives discussed during the congress align with President Nayib Bukele’s vision of transforming El Salvador’s education system into a key driver of economic growth, scientific development, and social progress. Throughout the two-day hybrid event, participants are exchanging best practices and analyzing international experiences related to digital transformation, artificial intelligence, dual education, quality assurance, accreditation, and curriculum modernization.
University students attending the congress also welcomed the initiative, describing it as evidence of the country’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and equipping future professionals with the skills needed to compete in an increasingly technology-driven global economy. The event further strengthens El Salvador’s efforts to position itself as a regional leader in educational innovation and higher education reform.