Canary Islands Government Approves Grants for Special Education Transport Costs

Overview

The Canary Islands government has approved a series of non-competitive grants to private special education centers for transport costs during the fall semester of 2025.

• Total amount: nearly €995,800
• Purpose: support students with motor and psychological disabilities requiring specialized transportation, often in adapted vehicles
• Urgent response to: increasing costs caused by expanding routes and higher demand for transport for special needs students

Funding and Budgeting

• The grants are higher than initially budgeted but mechanisms will be implemented to adjust the budget.
• Funds are sourced from the 2025 regional budget.

Objectives and Impact

"This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of students with special needs by ensuring they can attend school safely and comfortably."

• Ensures safe and accessible transportation for students with disabilities
• Emphasizes inclusive education and equal access

Conditions and Requirements

• Grants will be paid in advance without requiring guarantees, provided centers are compliant with tax obligations.
• Centers must:
  • Manage transport adhering to safety norms
  • Provide free transportation service to students

Policy and Legal Context

• Decision aligns with legal frameworks prioritizing inclusive education.
• Demonstrates a proactive stance amid rising transportation expenses.

Broader Significance

This measure underscores a key aspect of inclusive policy:

• Dedicated resources to make education accessible for all
• Reflects the region’s human rights priorities
• Ongoing effort to adapt public services to the evolving needs of vulnerable students