Nazareth Rodrigo, the director general of European Affairs, recently visited the travelling exhibition '50 years together: The birth of Castilla-La Mancha' at IES Eladio Cabañero in Tomelloso. During her visit, she underscored the importance of educating students about the recent history of the region and the events that led to its establishment as an autonomous community.
This exhibition is part of the commemorative programme '50 years together', launched to mark the 50th anniversary of Spain's democratic transition. The programme includes various cultural, educational, and outreach activities aimed at bringing this significant period of Spain's recent history, as well as that of Castilla-La Mancha, closer to the public.
Accompanied by José Caro, the provincial delegate for Education, Culture and Sports, and the school's director, José Ángel Martínez, Rodrigo stated that understanding the past is crucial for comprehending the present and contemplating the future. She remarked, “Memory is not only a means to know our roots and our past but also to reflect on where we are and where we are going.”
The exhibition, aimed at secondary education and baccalaureate students, offers a visual and educational insight into the process of building Castilla-La Mancha, from its territorial antecedents and early regionalist ideas to the approval of the Statute of Autonomy in 1982. It features maps, photographs, historical documents, and press content that help elucidate the debates and events that marked the birth of the autonomous community.
Rodrigo also highlighted the educational value of this initiative, which complements the curriculum in subjects such as Geography, History, and Civic Values Education. She stressed the importance of the younger generations understanding the events leading up to the democratic transition, stating, “In the times we live in, it is essential to look back.”
She expressed gratitude to IES Eladio Cabañero for hosting the travelling exhibition, which will visit various educational centres across the region, providing students with the opportunity to engage with their more recent history.
José Caro, the provincial delegate for Education, Culture and Sports, emphasised the importance of young people understanding the process of building Castilla-La Mancha and the role played by its five provinces in shaping the autonomous community. He noted that educational institutions have a fundamental role in conveying this knowledge and encouraging young people to reflect on their past and future.
