Cobre Panama launches “Happy School” project to benefit more than 2,000 students in Colón and Coclé

– The project guarantees a daily hot meal and support in improving school infrastructure, reinforcing Cobre Panama’s commitment to community development.

Panama City, March 18, 2025 – With the firm commitment to support the welfare of children, Cobre Panama, in alliance with MEDUCA, Junta Comunal de La Pintada, and the Parents’ Association, launched the “Happy School” project through its Cobre Conecta program. This initiative seeks to improve the infrastructure in schools in Coclé and Colón, benefiting more than 2,000 students with adequate spaces for learning, a daily hot meal, backpacks with crayons, coloring books and lunch bags, thus promoting their educational development and wellbeing.

The project arose in response to the urgent needs of communities where school conditions directly affect the well-being and learning of students. Over the years, Cobre Panama has supported various social initiatives that reinforce the sense of community and commitment to local development, demonstrating that collaboration between the private sector, government and communities can generate significant changes.

Dr. Yoisy Atencio Espinoza de Mojica, Director of MEDUCA of the Cocle Regional commented: “This program marks a before and after for our schools. Thanks to Cobre Panama for selecting these 20 pilot schools and providing healthy food that allows our students to make the most of their class hours. Feeding them while they learn not only transforms their present, but lays the foundation for a future full of opportunities. We are grateful for this great initiative that positively impacts the education and well-being of our children.”

Faced with this reality, “Escuela Feliz” seeks to generate a positive impact through comprehensive solutions that improve the school environment and promote better opportunities for children, thus strengthening the social fabric and promoting a more equitable future for new generations.

In this first stage, school feeding and infrastructure improvements will begin in the schools of Santos George, Canoa 2, Río Caimito, Cascajal, San Juanito and Cermeño. In addition, other communities have been identified for future phases of the project, which will expand its positive impact on education and student welfare.

“Cobre Panama not only provides us with a plate of food, but also a tool for our children, who often come without food, to perform academically. We thank parents, teachers and the entire community for their support so that this project, Escuela Feliz, can reach those who need it most. These children are the future of Panama, and together we are building a better tomorrow,” said Jolis Torres, representative of the Parents’ Association.

“Escuela Feliz” focuses on two key pillars: school feeding and infrastructure improvement. This includes repairing roofs, renovating classrooms, and building dining halls and bathrooms. These actions not only improve facilities, but also strengthen the community and provide children with an optimal environment to learn and grow.

“Today we celebrate something simple, yet powerful, a good meal. A school lunch is not just food, it is energy for young minds and bright futures. This is more than a meal; it’s community, it’s togetherness, and it’s the foundation for a tomorrow full of opportunity. Let’s continue to build together a future where every child can learn, grow and succeed,” said John Dean, General Manager of Cobre Panama.

Cobre Panama reinforces its commitment to community development by addressing urgent needs. In a context where the lack of investment in education is a challenge, “Escuela Feliz” provides hope and opportunities to thousands of children. This alliance demonstrates that, working together, we can build a happier future.