Brazil- The governor of São Paulo, Tarcísio de Freitas, has authorized the Department of Education to start the bidding process for privatizing “non-pedagogical” services in 33 new elementary and secondary schools. This initiative represents a significant step towards a public-private partnership (PPP) model in the state’s education system.
The services up for privatization include a variety of operational and maintenance tasks such as building and equipment upkeep, cleaning, security, concierge services, gardening, pest control, food services, and assistance for students with daily activities. While these services are crucial for the smooth operation of schools, the direct teaching responsibilities will continue to be managed by the State Department of Education (Seduc).
The decree outlines that the bidding process will be an international competition aimed at creating an administrative concession for the construction, maintenance, management, and operation of non-pedagogical services in the 33 schools. To streamline this process, the schools are divided into two lots: East and West. The concession contracts will span 25 years, promoting long-term investment and stability.
The estimated cost for constructing these schools is around R$2.1 billion. Once built, they will offer 35,100 full-time places for students, with school days lasting nine hours. The auctions for these projects are scheduled for September this year, with the winning bidder being selected based on the lowest maximum public consideration value, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
The West lot includes 17 schools located in Araras, Bebedouro, Campinas, Itatiba, Jardinópolis, Lins, Marília, Olímpia, Presidente Prudente, Ribeirão Preto, Rio Claro, São José do Rio Preto, Sertãozinho, and Taquaritinga. Meanwhile, the East lot will cover schools in Aguaí, Arujá, Atibaia, Campinas, Carapicuíba, Diadema, Guarulhos, Itapetininga, Leme, Limeira, Peruíbe, Salto de Pirapora, São João da Boa Vista, São José dos Campos, Sorocaba, and Suzano.
This initiative is part of a larger effort to enhance the educational infrastructure in São Paulo. Currently, 2,332 schools are part of the Comprehensive Education Program, representing 44% of the state network. Adding these 33 schools through the PPP model is expected to further strengthen the state’s educational capacity.
By outsourcing non-pedagogical services to private companies, the government aims to ensure efficient school operations and maintain high standards, allowing educators to concentrate on teaching. Seduc will decide which schools will be part of each lot, ensuring the division aligns with strategic educational objectives. This development highlights São Paulo’s commitment to improving its educational infrastructure through innovative public-private partnerships.
