Milagros Tolón Champions Inclusive Digitalization and Increased Investment in Castilla-La Mancha Education

Toledo, Spain – Milagros Tolón, the Minister of Education, Vocational Training and Sports, underscored the importance of inclusive digitalization and increased budgetary support for education in Castilla-La Mancha during her keynote address at the Exducere 2026 Education Congress, themed ‘Education is the Key’. The congress, hosted in Toledo by the Regional Teacher Training Center (CRFP) of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports of Castilla-La Mancha, focused on promoting reflection and improvement within the educational sector.

Prioritizing People and Pedagogical Digitalization

Tolón emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to digitalization, but stressed the importance of a pedagogical approach. “We are committed to inclusive digitalization with a pedagogical sense, without ever losing sight of the fact that the heart of education will always continue to be in people and their teachers,” she stated. She highlighted that education extends beyond knowledge transmission, encompassing the accompaniment, guidance, and empowerment of each student to realize their full potential, a task she described as reliant on an “absolutely irreplaceable” teaching staff.

Legislative Support for Educators

The Minister referenced the ongoing draft law aimed at reducing student-teacher ratios and teaching hours, noting that it addresses “measures long demanded by the educational community.” This legislative effort signals a commitment to supporting educators and improving the learning environment.

Education as a Cornerstone of Progress

Tolón, alongside Secretary of State for Education Abelardo de la Rosa, positioned education as fundamental to individual advancement, social justice, and national prosperity. Acknowledging the era of rapid change, she addressed the democratic challenges facing educational centers, specifically the spread of misinformation, hoaxes, and hate speech.

Record Investment in Castilla-La Mancha Education

Tolón affirmed that education remains a central priority for the current government, reflected in significant budgetary investments. She announced that Castilla-La Mancha has received over 1.1 billion euros from the Ministry to bolster its educational system in the last seven years – a 160% increase compared to the funding received in 2018. These resources, she explained, translate directly into expanded educational opportunities, increased support for schools, and a more robust and equitable educational system.

Castilla-La Mancha to Receive Increased Funding in 2026

Looking ahead, Tolón announced that Castilla-La Mancha is projected to receive 7.445 billion euros in 2026, representing a 7.1% increase over 2025. This will be the largest allocation the region has ever received from the central government, demonstrating a continued commitment to supporting education and public services.

Leadership Transition in Castilla-La Mancha

The increased funding and educational initiatives are taking place during a period of leadership transition. José Pablo Sabrido has succeeded Milagros Tolón as the Delegate of the Government in Castilla-La Mancha, following her appointment as Minister of Education, Vocational Training and Sports.