The director general of Vocational Training and Employment Training, Manuel Gómez, announced that for the 2023-2024 academic year, Extremadura's vocational training offer will include 21 new teachings, with 17 new Dual training cycles and 4 new specialization courses. This expansion aligns with the new Vocational Training Law and aims to meet market demand. The total offer will consist of 557 training cycles, with 41 percent in Dual format, supported by over 600 participating companies. The admission period for the next school year will be open from May 2 to June 2, with applications submitted online.

Guillermo Fernández Vara, president of the Junta de Extremadura, along with Pedro Sánchez, president of the Government of Spain, and Pilar Alegría, Minister of Education and Vocational Training, visited the I.E.S. Zurbarán in Navalmoral de la Mata. The visit also included Esther Gutiérrez, the regional Minister of Education and Employment.

The Junta de Extremadura has urged the Spanish Government and the European Union to establish direct aid to alleviate the severe impact of drought on the agricultural sector. Begoña García highlighted the need for flexibility in the Rural Development Program to support the most affected sectors. The Junta plans to complement these aids with additional measures to be discussed in an upcoming Agricultural Advisory Council. The article underscores the critical situation in Extremadura due to prolonged drought and the government's efforts to support the region's economic backbone.

The Spanish Senate has accepted VOX's amendment to promote the maintenance and improvement of dams and reservoirs as an effective tool for managing water resources in Spain, particularly to address drought situations. Senator José Manuel Marín emphasized the need for a National Hydrological Plan and a national water supply system to ensure water access for all regions. He criticized the government's current hydrological planning for focusing solely on ecological principles and neglecting the needs of citizens and businesses, especially in the primary sector. Marín also opposed regionalist policies and dismissed the use of climate change as an excuse for political inaction.

Vehicle parking will be prohibited on specific streets in Arroyo de la Luz tomorrow due to the procession of the Virgin of the Light. The procession will start at 17:00 from the Ermita and follow designated routes, with parking restrictions in place from 15:30 until the events conclude. The local government will implement gradual traffic cuts to facilitate the procession, urging residents to follow temporary signage and instructions for smooth proceedings.

The study 'Bienestar psicológico y salud mental del estudiantado de la UEX,' coordinated by Víctor López and Rocío Yuste, examines the mental health and emotional well-being of students at the University of Extremadura. Key findings reveal high levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders among students, with family support being crucial. The study also highlights the impact of social media and the challenges of achieving independence. Sara Durán, director of the Instituto de la juventud de Extremadura, emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health issues and integrating support systems within the university.

Rafael España, the Minister of Economy, Science, and Digital Agenda, attended the II edition of the Leadership & Innovation Awards for People Management in Extremadura, organized by the Asociación Centro de Aedipe (CENTRHO). He emphasized the transformative impact of technology on work environments and the essential role of human capital and leadership in navigating new paths of certainty, trust, and security.

Rafael España and Leire Iglesias welcomed Portuguese Minister of Territorial Cohesion Ana Abrunhosa at the Southwest European Logistics Platform in Badajoz. The visit, part of an initiative by the Câmara Municipal de Elvas, included presentations of ongoing Portuguese projects and aimed to explore cross-border infrastructure and logistics services. The delegation included several high-ranking officials from both Spain and Portugal.

The Civil Guard intercepted a Portuguese citizen attempting to transport 93,990 euros out of Spain without declaring it, a violation of Spanish law on capital movements and money laundering prevention. The money, hidden in two backpacks, was seized and deposited in the Bank of Spain. The individual claimed ignorance of the requirement to declare such amounts and must now prove the legal origin of the funds, facing potential sanctions.

Caja Rural de Extremadura has announced the XIX edition of the Espiga Sports Awards, recognizing athletes and entities in the region for their contributions to sports. The awards, supported by the Junta de Extremadura and regional sports federations, include a main prize of 4,000 euros and additional prizes for collective, individual, and inclusive sports. The awards aim to promote physical activity and its benefits for quality of life and health.

Diego Pérez has been presented as the Partido Popular's candidate for the mayoralty of Solana de los Barros, accompanied by a largely renewed team. The presentation event, held at the Casa de la Cultura, was attended by key party figures including Manuel Naharro and Roberto Romero. Pérez emphasized the commitment to offering a solid and reliable alternative to the current socialist management, aiming to improve the quality of life for local families and ensure better public services.

David Vaquero and Antonio Domínguez have been selected as VOX candidates for the mayoral positions in Moraleja and Talayuela, respectively. Vaquero, a retired military officer and member of VOX since 2018, is recognized for his leadership and commitment. Domínguez, a retired supervisor and educator, aims to bring a new approach to local politics focused on coherence, justice, and loyalty. Both candidates are praised for their dedication and vision for their respective municipalities.

Andrés Ortíz has been designated as the new candidate for the Mayor's Office of Berlanga by the Popular Party of Badajoz. He will lead a largely renewed list for the upcoming municipal elections on May 28. Ortíz emphasizes a commitment to public service and aims to address the needs of families, merchants, and farmers in Berlanga. He has already begun direct engagement with local agricultural groups and plans to continue this approach to understand and solve community issues. The Popular Party aims to offer a solid and reliable alternative to the current socialist administration, focusing on communication, healthcare, education, and public services.

The Partido Popular (PP) of Badajoz has officially presented Francisco José Cuesta as their candidate for the Mayor's Office of Alconera. The announcement was made at a public event in the Casa de la Cultura, attended by key PP figures including Juan Antonio Barrios and María José Calderón. Cuesta, who has previously been part of the PP's electoral list in Calzadilla de los Barros, aims to address local needs, particularly in job opportunities for the youth. The PP's campaign focuses on renewing municipal management and providing essential services to the community.

The Government Council of the Junta de Extremadura has authorized investments totaling 4.5 million euros for infrastructure improvements in Monfragüe National Park. The projects, funded entirely by Next Generation EU, will be executed by the public company TRAGSA. The initiatives include public use infrastructure enhancements, environmental conservation efforts, and wildfire prevention measures. Additionally, a second project focuses on ecosystem restoration in areas affected by forest fires. The government has also declared the general interest of wildfire prevention actions in Monfragüe and other high-risk areas, emphasizing the need for preventive planning and infrastructure.

The President of the Junta de Extremadura, Guillermo Fernández Vara, met with Paola García Lozano, the European karate champion, in Mérida. Paola, a young athlete from Almendralejo, won the title last month in Guadalajara, becoming the youngest karateka in history to win an absolute European championship at the age of 17.

The study explores the development of an electrospun scaffold composed of polycaprolactone (PCL) microfibers loaded with cholecalciferol (Col) for treating peri-implantitis. The scaffold demonstrated good mechanical properties, high porosity, and the ability to support MG-63 osteoblast-like cell attachment and proliferation. The Col-loaded scaffold effectively promoted alkaline phosphatase expression and calcium fixation in MG-63 cells, suggesting its potential for bone regeneration. However, higher Col concentrations decreased cell viability, indicating the need for further in vivo studies to assess the scaffold's efficacy and safety.

A new art exhibition titled 'The Dematerialized Landscape' by the Extremaduran artist Carmen Roncero is now open at the Santa María Cultural Complex in Plasencia. The exhibition, which explores the representation of landscapes through painting, will be available for viewing until May 26, 2023. Carmen Roncero, who resides in Plasencia and was born in Riolobos, has a background in architecture and various art forms. The exhibition is organized by the Diputación Provincial de Cáceres.

Zafra will host the 2nd edition of the Xtreme Challenge, a prominent mototourism event in Spain, on May 12 and 13. The event, which has grown in popularity since its inception in 2017, will feature a two-day program including exhibitions, test rides, and a secret route designed for various skill levels. The non-competitive nature of the event allows participation from all motorcyclists, regardless of their experience.

Pilar Carmona has been designated as the head of the Popular Party's list for the mayoral elections in Orellana la Vieja. She aims to become the first female mayor of the locality. The official presentation will take place on May 12, with participation from regional and provincial representatives of the Popular Party. Carmona's team includes experienced local politicians and enthusiastic young locals, promising a solid and reliable alternative for municipal management. The article emphasizes the need for change in Orellana la Vieja, highlighting Carmona's commitment to addressing the real needs of the community and improving public services.

The Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Sports, Nuria Flores Redondo, emphasized the participation of Extremadura artists in the WOMAD Cáceres 2023 festival, which will feature 21 groups and soloists from 14 countries. The festival, taking place from May 11 to 14, will include performances by Grammy-winning artist Susana Baca and legendary musician Gyedu-Blay Ambolley. The event is expected to attract a large audience, highlighting Cáceres and Extremadura as significant cultural and tourist destinations. The festival will also offer various workshops and activities, further enhancing its appeal.

The registration deadline for the VII Premio Pyme del Año, organized by Banco Santander, the Cámara de Comercio de Cáceres, and the Cámara de Comercio de España, has been extended to April 28, 2023. The award aims to recognize the contributions of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in generating wealth and creating jobs. SMEs with fewer than 250 employees and annual revenues under 50 million euros can participate. The award includes four additional categories: Internationalization, Innovation and Digitalization, Training and Employment, and Sustainable SME. Winners will compete for the National SME of the Year Award in 2024.

Cáceres Impulsa will host the fourth edition of Cáceres Talk on April 27, focusing on female entrepreneurial talent in the province of Cáceres. The event, held at the Cáceres Chamber of Commerce, will feature Marta Lozano, president of Wazo Coop, known for her social projects and international recognition. The event will highlight the importance of cooperativism in modern business, offer networking opportunities, and include high-quality gastronomy, sponsored by several local brands.

This Friday, April 21, at 21:00, the play 'El crédito' by Jordi Galcerán will be performed at Teatro López de Ayala. Directed by Raquel Pérez and starring Pablo Carbonell and Armando del Río, the play is a humorous and engaging story about a man trying to secure a small loan from a bank without any collateral. The play, which has won several awards, offers a sharp social critique and has been well-received by audiences and critics alike. Tickets are priced at 25 € for the main floor and 20 € for the amphitheater.

On April 20th, at 21:00 hours, the López de Ayala Theater will host the play 'From Lázaro to Lazarillo,' directed by Juan Carlos Tirado and produced by TAPTC Teatro in collaboration with the Junta de Extremadura's Consejería de Cultura y Turismo. A conference for students will be held at 12:30 hours by Raquel Bazo, the playwright, discussing the creative process of combining the original novel with the discovery of the Barcarrota Library books and the historical and philological significance of an unknown edition of 'El Lazarillo de Tormes.' The play, featuring Raquel Bazo, Yoni González, and Francis J. Quirós, lasts 70 minutes and is recommended for audiences over 8 years old. The story intertwines the narrative of 'El Lazarillo de Tormes' with the adventures of Ana, a doctor in Hispanic Philology, and the mysteries surrounding the hidden books and the true author of 'El Lazarillo.' Attendees of the conference receive a discount for the theater performance, and students pay only 4€ with the aim of encouraging cultural engagement and understanding the societal role of the adversities faced by Lázaro de Tormes.

The sixth edition of the International Congress of Migration Journalism, organized by the Agencia Extremeña de Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo (AEXCID) and Fundación PorCausa, was inaugurated in Mérida. The event, which focuses on migration and human rights, features a predominantly female lineup of speakers and addresses complex topics such as the situation in Syria and the media coverage of migrant deaths at sea. Notable participants include Rosa María Calaf, Lucía Mbomío, and Marcela Turati. The congress aims to position Extremadura as a hub for human rights and migration journalism.

The II Festival of Artisan Trades in Cáceres, organized by the Diputación de Cáceres and ARTESANEX, aims to promote local crafts and sustainable fashion. The event will take place in six municipalities from April to September, featuring live craft demonstrations, master classes, participatory workshops, traditional music parades, and a sustainable fashion show. The festival seeks to support socio-economic development, preserve cultural heritage, and foster innovation and employment in the artisan sector.

The final day of the Trofeo Rector 2022-2023 took place on April 19, featuring competitions between the winners from the Badajoz and Cáceres campuses of UEx. The event saw exemplary behavior from around 150 participants across team and individual sports. Caceres dominated individual sports, while team sports ended in a tie. UEx Rector Pedro Fernández Salguero, along with other officials, attended the trophy presentation, emphasizing their support for university sports as a means of promoting comprehensive education and healthy living. The event highlighted the ongoing commitment of regional institutions to university sports.

On April 19, the XIV Cycle of Contemporary Music of Badajoz will feature Ensemble Mosaik, a veteran German contemporary group, accompanied by percussionist-performer Roberto Maqueda. They will perform 'Time. Cage' by composer Manuel Rodríguez Valenzuela, among other pieces. The concert will take place at the Teatro López de Ayala at 8:30 PM with free admission. The event is organized by the Sociedad Filarmónica de Badajoz in co-production with the CNDM and supported by the Junta de Extremadura, the Diputación de Badajoz, and the Fundación CB.

Alexandra Segador Olivares, a 6th-grade student from Colegio FEC San José in Villanueva de la Serena, Badajoz, has won the 42nd edition of the 'What is a king to you?' contest in Extremadura. She will represent the region in a private audience with King Felipe VI. Her winning artwork is a portrait of Princess Leonor, highlighting her naturalness and preparation for future royal duties. The contest, promoted by the Fundación Institucional Española and Fundación Orange, saw participation from 498 students across Extremadura. The award ceremony included the exhibition of 35 finalist works from 9 schools. The contest encourages digital transformation in education, with submissions in various digital and traditional formats.

The Diario Oficial de Extremadura (DOE) has announced the call for complementary grants for university students in Extremadura selected for the Erasmus+ Mobility program for the 2023-2024 academic year. There are two modalities: Erasmus+ Studies for study periods in European higher education institutions and Erasmus+ Internships for training periods in European institutions, organizations, or companies. Applicants must be enrolled in the University of Extremadura, associated centers of the National University of Distance Education in Mérida and Plasencia, or any public university in Spain. The total amount of the call is 500,000 euros, with each beneficiary receiving 200 euros per month for up to 7 months, not exceeding 1,400 euros. Applications are open for one month starting April 18.

The Municipal Library of Arroyo de la Luz has been awarded the Reading Promotion Award in Extremadura 2023 for its project 'BiblioArroyo + Fácil'. The awards aim to promote reading and the role of public and school libraries, as well as the dissemination of Extremaduran literature. The awards ceremony will take place next week at the Library of Extremadura, coinciding with International Book Day. The Arroyo de la Luz City Council commends the efforts of its Municipal Library in fostering reading in the locality.

Las Migas, a female flamenco group, will perform at the Complejo Cultural Santa María de Plasencia on April 18, 2023, at 20:30 hours. The concert is part of the cultural program organized by the Diputación Provincial de Cáceres. The group, consisting of Marta Robles, Carolina 'La Chispa', Alicia Grillo, and Laura Pacios, has received a Latin Grammy for their album 'LIBRES' and other awards. 'LIBRES' features ten compositions that blend flamenco with other musical styles.

On April 17, 2023, selection tests will be held at the Mérida Traffic School for Civil Guards aspiring to join the Mobile Road Safety Unit (UMSV) of the Civil Guard for the 78th edition of the Vuelta Ciclista a España 2023. The tests include knowledge of the specialty, sports events, road safety legislation, psychotechnical tests, motorcycle driving skills, and a personal interview. A total of 18 members will be selected to ensure the safety and mobility of cyclists and other participants in the event. The Vuelta 23 will start in Barcelona and end in Madrid, with no stages planned in Extremadura.

On Sunday, April 16, at 12:00 PM, the Teatro López de Ayala will host the 'Hijos del Rock & Roll' concert, produced by Rock en Familia and presented by their mascot, El Oso Rosendo. The event, featuring songs from influential rock artists like Miguel Ríos, Extremoduro, Barricada, Rosendo, Loquillo, and Platero y tú, aims to provide a memorable family experience. Tickets are priced at 10€ for the amphitheater and 12€ for the stalls, with a duration of 70 minutes.

Luis Pastor, the renowned singer-songwriter from Berzocana, will present his latest album 'Extremadura Fado' at the López de Ayala theater this Saturday. The album is a tribute to his homeland, blending music and poetry with influences from Portugal and Cabo Verde. Critics praise the album for its freshness, finesse, and spontaneity. The concert will feature performances by Lourdes Guerra, Manu Clavijo, and Álvaro Navarro.

Antonio Pozo will be officially presented as the Partido Popular (PP) candidate for the Mayor of Guadiana on April 14, 2023. The event will be attended by key PP figures, including Roberto Romero and Pedro Pablo González. Pozo, currently a non-affiliated councilor and opposition leader, is highlighted for his extensive experience and commitment to addressing local needs. The article criticizes the PSOE for the town's stagnation and promotes the PP's values and future political project.

The second call for the 2023 exams to obtain the Certificate of Professional Competence (CAP) for truck and bus driving will be held on April 14. The exams, aimed at drivers of specific vehicle categories, will take place at the Regional Transport Center in Mérida. Candidates must complete a mandatory course before taking the exam. Future exam dates are scheduled for May 26, July 7, September 22, and November 10. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda's CAP course management application.

The Junta de Extremadura has announced a new edition of the Executive Training Program aimed at businesswomen, entrepreneurs, and female executives in the region. The program will be conducted online, offering 60 hours of specialized training in leadership skills, digital competencies, strategic SME management, and executive responsibility. Participants will also receive personalized advice to address their questions. The training is divided into three editions for groups of twenty, with sessions scheduled on different weekdays and times. The program starts on April 24, and successful participants will receive a certificate. Registration ends on Monday, April 17, and applications can be submitted through the Extremadura Empresarial website.

The National Executive Committee of VOX, following the proposal of the Provincial Executive Committee, has entrusted Jesús Guerrero, José Miguel Sillero, Santiago Muñoz, and Francisco Saavedra with the mayoral candidacies for Casar de Cáceres, Hervás, Jarandilla de la Vera, and Alcuéscar, respectively. Each candidate highlights their readiness to offer a different way of managing their towns after decades of PSOE governance.

The IV International Congress on relations between Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe, organized by the Yuste Foundation, will be held at the University of Cartagena de Indias on April 13-14, 2023. Key speakers include Colombia's Minister of Justice, Spain's Ambassador to Colombia, and the rector of the University of Cartagena de Indias. The congress will focus on mutual cooperation in culture, integration, identity, international security, and energy, as well as the role of civil society in political and economic development and the importance of democracy in transatlantic relations. The event is supported by various academic and governmental institutions.

The XVI Media Maratón José María Pámpano and VII 11K will take place on April 16 in Alburquerque, with around 400 participants from across Spain and Portugal. The event, supported by the Junta de Extremadura and organized by A.D. Alburquerque with the collaboration of the Federación Extremeña de Atletismo, highlights the region's athletic and environmental strengths. Dan de Sande, the Director General of Sports, emphasized the importance of sports promotion and the unique setting of the race.

The descent of the Virgin of the Light to the town will take place on April 13, starting at 17:00 from the Sanctuary to the Residence for the Elderly, followed by a procession to San Sebastián Square. Authorities, accompanied by the Municipal Music Band and traditionally dressed individuals, will join at 20:30. The official reception will include a Salutación speech by Marisa Holgado Bello and the handing over of the Staff of Command by Mayor Carlos Caro Domínguez. The novena will be held from April 14 to 22, with daily masses at the Church of the Assumption. The final day of the novena will be April 22, followed by the Virgin's return procession to the Hermitage. The pilgrimage in honor of the Patroness will be celebrated on April 23, with a mass and procession around the Sanctuary.

Guillermo Fernández Vara, the president of the Junta de Extremadura, emphasized the significance of research in making progress against Parkinson's disease during his visit to the Sociosanitary Center for Parkinson's on World Parkinson's Day. He was joined by officials including Pilar Blanco-Morales, José María Vergeles, and Isabel Gil Rosiña. Fernández Vara highlighted the life-saving impact of scientific research, as seen in the pandemic, and advocated for the defense and protection of research centers as they promote equal opportunities and dignified care.

The Noches de Santa María cultural program continues with a concert by the Polish group KROKE, known for their ethnic rhythms, improvisation, and klezmer music. The event will take place at the Complejo Cultural Santa María de Plasencia on April 11 at 20:30. KROKE, founded in 1992, has evolved from klezmer to incorporate various global ethnic influences, celebrating their 30th anniversary with the release of their new album 'Loud Silence'.

The Cardiology Service at the Hospital Universitario de Badajoz has launched a remote telerehabilitation program for cardiology patients using a mobile application named Cardioplan and virtual consultations. This initiative aims to provide heart patients with proper follow-up and knowledge about their condition and lifestyle changes to reduce cardiovascular risks. The program, which is part of Extremadura's health plan, is coordinated by Dr. María Yuste Domínguez and Dr. Mª Eugenia Fuentes Cañamero, with support from nurses and primary care physicians, and includes innovative collaboration with sectors outside the hospital.

The Civil Guard, with the assistance of the Local Police of Talavera la Real, has arrested and investigated four individuals from the same municipality for their alleged involvement in a robbery of a local residence. The crime occurred while the homeowners were absent, with the perpetrators scaling and breaking into the house to steal 1,700 euros, various types of jewelry, and a video game series. Evidence gathered during the investigation led to the implication of the four suspects, some with prior criminal records. The video game series was recovered and returned to the rightful owner, while efforts continue to recover the stolen money and jewelry.

The Official Journal of Extremadura has published a call for applications for a rental assistance program aimed at especially vulnerable individuals, with a budget of one million euros. The program is intended to provide immediate housing solutions to victims of gender violence, individuals facing eviction, the homeless, and other particularly vulnerable people. Directed at municipalities with over 25,000 residents and Third Sector Social entities in Extremadura, the program offers up to 50,000 euros per entity and a maximum of 600 euros per month for rent and 200 euros for basic expenses to the final beneficiaries. Applications open tomorrow and will be processed through direct grant concession.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, Population, and Territory has published payment resolutions for the extension of aid to integrated tobacco production for the 2022 campaign in the Official Gazette of Extremadura. Interested parties can access the full text of the communications online. Appeals can be made to the Directorate General of Community Agricultural Policy or the Ministry of Agriculture within one month from April 4.

On March 9th in Badajoz, at FUNDECYT, the Scientific and Technological Park of Extremadura, a session titled 'Science and Technology-Based Innovative Companies and the New Startups Law' will take place. The session will focus on the recently approved Startups Law in Spain, which aims to promote the creation, development, and consolidation of innovative entrepreneurial projects. The law focuses on science and technology-based innovative companies and offers benefits such as simplified administrative procedures, hiring of highly qualified talent, and tax incentives for qualifying companies. The event will provide key insights into the law, support services, and certifications for innovative companies.

Enrique Gámez Clemente, born in Granada on August 12, 1998, and currently residing in Jaén, is a writer who launched his first book 'Rompecabezas de una mente rota' at the age of 23 in 2021. He followed up with two more books, 'En el patíbulo' and 'Bailando con la muerte.' The article provides brief synopses of these works, which deal with themes of love, time, solitude, death, and existential concerns. Gámez's writing is presented as a form of therapy and a challenge to materialistic values.

The study analyzes Th17 cytokine expression and its correlation with periodontopathogens and inflamed periodontal area in patients with chronic periodontitis. A descriptive exploratory study was conducted with 23 patients diagnosed with chronic periodontitis and a control group of 10 healthy/gingivitis individuals. Periodontal examinations and PISA method were used to quantify the periodontal wound size. Samples were analyzed using ELISA and PCR techniques. Results showed a non-significant increase in IL-17A, IL-6, and IL-23 levels in chronic periodontitis subjects, a significant decrease in IL-10, and a positive correlation between IL-17A levels and inflamed periodontal area. Associations were found between certain periodontopathogens and IL-6 plasma levels.

With the arrival of spring, it's time to incorporate foods that are not only delicious but also provide nutrients for maintaining excellent health. Asparagus, available from March to June, boosts the immune system and helps prevent flu and allergies. Beets are known for their mood-enhancing and cancer-preventing properties. Strawberries, rich in vitamin C, are ideal for strengthening the immune system and have diuretic effects. Carrots, available in spring and early summer, are beneficial for dental health, constipation relief, and skin and hair protection. Pineapples, containing potassium, iodine, and vitamin C, support muscle activity, thyroid function, and weight loss. Spinach, abundant in spring, is especially good for pregnant women, aiding in bone formation and preventing anemia and cancer.