Peru’s Ministry of Education, under the current administration, has excluded students in the Early Basic Alternative modality (EBA) from participating in several national academic competitions, including ONEM-AA, "Eureka," and "El Perú Lee." Furthermore, the Ministry has eliminated the National Speech and Essay Contest “José Faustino Sánchez Carrión,” a competition established during the current minister’s prior role as Vice Minister of Pedagogical Management. This decision raises questions about the administration’s stance on public discourse and democratic values. The removal of the contest, specifically focused on speech and essay writing, is particularly concerning to observers. Critics are questioning the motives behind preventing EBA students from participating in these opportunities for academic enrichment. The move has sparked debate about access to education and the importance of fostering critical thinking skills among all students. The story was originally published by Lima Gris.