The Ministry of Social Development (MIDES) in Panama held a graduation ceremony for 21 young people who successfully completed their training at the Center for Adolescent Training and Development (CEFODEA). The graduates not only received their middle school diploma but also vocational training in various careers, including Mechanics, IT, Protocol, Bodywork, and Construction. The top three honors were awarded to students from the IT workshop: Álvaro Abraham Rodríguez Velásquez (first place), Alejandro Chanis González (second place), and Xavier Alexander Rivas Cuesta (third place). Minister of Social Development, Beatriz Carles, stated that the presentation of certificates is a source of deep pride for MIDES, an institution that has worked over the past 17 months to dignify and strengthen CEFODEA as a space of opportunity for young people from the San Miguelito district and adjacent areas. The official highlighted that the students actively collaborated in the center's transformation, participating in cleaning drives and improvement actions. The strengthening of CEFODEA was made possible through inter-institutional coordination between MIDES, the First Lady's Office, the private sector, and volunteer work. For the first time in ten years, the center received the necessary materials and supplies for the construction workshop and others, as well as the reinstatement of the internet service in the IT workshop, a service that had been inactive since 2017. This joint work, in collaboration with the teaching staff and the student population, allowed for the renovation of infrastructures, the recovery of green areas, and other crucial improvements. Minister Carles assured that thanks to the collaboration between the Government, the private sector, and the community, the center is being rebuilt, its workshops are being strengthened, and its academic offer is being enhanced. CEFODEA's enrollment goals and capacity The Center for Adolescent Training and Development (CEFODEA), located in San Miguelito, serves young people who have dropped out of the regular education system or are seeking rapid vocational training to acquire income-generating skills. During the year 2025, CEFODEA served a population of 44 students. Minister Beatriz Carles highlighted that the graduation reflects the strengthening of CEFODEA, whose goal is to reach an enrollment of 100 students and to dignify the center with better tools. In addition, the center, which has a capacity to serve up to 200 young people, is being equipped with the best tools to guarantee high-quality academic and technical training. This educational program was complemented with workshops and sessions dedicated to the development of soft skills, work aptitude, and human development, essential to prepare them for productive life and integrate them into the social sphere. During the 2025 graduation ceremony, the discipline and commitment of the most outstanding students were recognized. Minister Beatriz Carles has set a goal to increase enrollment for the next year to reach 100 students.
