Imaginarios y desafíos del Sistema de Educación Intercultural Bilingüe en el CECIB Mario León

Abstract

In this study, the challenges and limitations of the Bilingual Intercultural Education (BIE) system were identified in an environment that hinders its implementation, as established in Article 29 of the Constitution of the Republic of Ecuador, which guarantees the right of individuals to learn in their own language and cultural context. Specifically, the CECIB Mario León Ramírez, operating under the BIE system, was analyzed. It is designed to strengthen and revitalize ancestral mother tongues and traditions, addressing the educational needs of indigenous communities. However, a question arises since not all members of the educational community belong to indigenous communities; they speak Spanish as their mother tongue and reflect Western cultural traits and worldview. The objective of this study was to identify the challenges faced by Bilingual Intercultural Education in the CECIB Mario León Ramírez. A qualitative approach was used, employing a case study method and techniques such as participant observation, document analysis, and semi-structured interviews with parents, students, and the school's leader. The findings indicate that the challenges faced by BIE in CECIB Mario León are cultural and linguistic aspects, as socio-educational actors within this institution oppose and reject BIE due to imaginary beliefs that devalue indigenous traditions and the Kichwa language. Therefore, it is essential to work on strengthening the Kichwa language and raising awareness about indigenous traditions to overcome the challenges identified in the Bilingual Intercultural Education System at CECIB Mario León.