The Basque Government will invest €8.8 million for the expansion of the San Jorge Vocational Training Centre in Santurtzi

The Governing Council has approved an investment of €8.8 million for the expansion of the San Jorge Vocational Training Centre in Santurtzi. As explained by the Government spokesperson, María Ubarretxena, this project forms part of the Hezkuntza Eraiki 2030 Educational Infrastructure Plan.

This investment will involve the construction of a new four-storey building spanning more than 4,000 square metres. As outlined by the spokesperson, the new facility will house training programs in transport and motor vehicle maintenance. Space will also be dedicated to the development of a business incubator for emerging companies within this sector. The employability rate for vocational training in the Basque Country is currently 90%.

Agreements with Organisations for the Fight Against Addiction

The Council has also approved three agreements with organisations involved in supporting individuals affected by addictions and substance abuse problems. Specifically, María Ubarretxena reported that the Department of Health will allocate €418,000 to support three collaboration agreements with the Bizkaia Anti-AIDS Citizens' Commission, the Gizakia Civil Foundation, and Cáritas Diocesanas de Bilbao.

“The purpose of these agreements,” stated the spokesperson, “is aligned with the government’s commitments to promoting health and providing care for those in situations of special vulnerability and helplessness.”

Combating Misinformation on Social Media in Emergency Situations

Among other initiatives, the Government has authorised an agreement to provide the public with official and accurate information via social media during emergencies.

According to María Ubarretxena, this agreement, which involves the Basque Government and the Basque Digital Emergency Volunteers Association (VOST), is part of a broader objective to prevent situations involving significant collective risks, disasters, or public calamities.

“This initiative,” she said, “aims to prioritise official information while preventing the spread of hoaxes and rumours that could have unintended and harmful consequences.”

The agreement also includes measures to implement actions related to public awareness, training, risk management, public safety, and emergency response.