Education is the key

This is another article from THE NEWS, the English-language newspaper here in Mexico City. for the full article, go to http://www.thenews.com.mx/home/tnArticulo.asp?cve_cont=389721

Education is the key

In Mexico, social development is more important than investment risk ratings, according to JosAc Narro Robles, rector of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).

The problem is structural and of the future, he stressed, not situational or of the moment. The most important thing, he said, is not just to create wealth, but to distribute it adequately. For that reason, he said it's necessary to subordinate private interests in favor of the interests of the nation, to define priorities and devote more resources to higher education, science and culture.
He said that education is fundamental for progress.

Guanajuato Governor Juan Manuel Oliva Ramírez said that for the 200 years of Mexico's independence, academics have been committed to the construction of a better, more just and humane, country.

Mexico has a good school system, and it's a 'public' system, in that it's free for citizens. But, it's not available for all citizens. All children are entitled to 5 years of free elementary school. Much like in the U.S., poor neighborhoods tend to have lower-quality schools. The difference is that 40%-60% of Mexico's citizens live in poor neighborhoods. Students must pass a test to enter middle school, and there is only enough space for half of the mexican children. After middle school, the children take another test and again only half of them progress to prep school, or high school that is required for college entry. From this small group, less than half will qualify for college. For those who are able to pass the tests, elementary, middle school, high schoolo, and even college is basically free. Unfortunately, it is mainly the students from the rich neighborhoods, with the better public school teachers, who are able to pass the tests and continue in the public system - despite the fact that their parents are most able to afford a private school alternative. This leads to a cycle of poverty and divided classes that cannot be easily broken. Education would quickly move Mexico into the realm of developed countries, as an educated voting public would no longer accept as much government corruption and mismanagement. I think.