More than 800 residents of Sucre, Bolivia, received free medical and physical fitness certifications at Plaza 25 de Mayo on Saturday as part of a “Back to School” operation designed to streamline the process of returning to classes, according to local officials.
The initiative, a collaborative effort between the Province and the Municipality, offered health clinics, vision screenings, and counseling on substance use, alongside recreational activities for children. Darío Romero, coordinator of the Ñacheq program, confirmed the unexpectedly high turnout, stating that the demand for the services was significant.
Residents expressed appreciation for the centralized location and accessibility of the operation, particularly given reported difficulties in securing appointments through traditional channels. “It is challenging to get shifts in the classrooms, so it is good for us,” one resident told local media. Another noted that the operation “made it much easier” to complete necessary school procedures.
Plaza 25 de Mayo, the central square of Sucre, is a focal point for civic life and is surrounded by colonial architecture, including the Casa de la Libertad – where Bolivia’s independence was declared – and the Cathedral Basilica. The plaza itself is accessible 24/7, though surrounding institutions typically operate between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, and 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM Tuesday through Saturday. The square features a central fountain, covered arcades housing cafes and shops, and exercise facilities, according to local tourism information.
The Casa de la Libertad charges approximately 15 Bolivianos (roughly $2 USD) for entry, while access to Plaza 25 de Mayo itself is free. The operation leveraged the plaza’s central location to provide convenient access to essential services for families preparing for the school year. Taxi service to the plaza from the bus terminal costs approximately 10-15 Bolivianos.
