For years, only one or two students from a typical class could reach university, reflecting the limited access to higher education faced by Salvadoran families. The new initiative seeks to change that reality by guaranteeing educational support from birth through graduation from higher education.
President Nayib Bukele emphasized the government’s commitment to accompanying students throughout their academic journey, from early childhood to university completion. The program aims to address the country’s historically low transition rate from secondary school to higher education and ensure that more young people can pursue professional careers.
Bukele highlighted the determination and optimism of Salvadoran youth, arguing that limited opportunities-not a lack of ambition-have been a major barrier to educational and professional advancement. The scholarships are intended to channel that motivation toward academic achievement, professional development, and long-term economic opportunities.
The President also called on international companies, multilateral institutions, and organizations to recognize the potential of Salvadoran talent, describing the country’s young people as motivated, skilled, and eager to build successful futures.
The scholarship announcement forms part of a broader government strategy to strengthen education and human capital alongside improvements in public security. By expanding access to higher education, El Salvador aims to prepare more young people to compete in an increasingly global and technology-driven economy.
“From birth until graduation, the government will guarantee their entire path,” Bukele stated, presenting education as a central pillar of what he described as El Salvador’s national renewal.