Education: Cuba has 98% literacy

Junior high school Havana
Junior high school Havana

Our first introduction to the Cuban education system is a junior high school in Havana. The level at which these children are learning far exceeds anything in the UK.

They are in school for 8.30am, not finishing till 5pm, and up to eight classes per day with one hour for lunch.  Yet still they show such enthusiasm for learning. incredible! No wonder Cuba has a 98% literacy level.

Then it was on to the Museum of Literacy. This museum exhibits photos, film footage, documents, letters and personal belongings that bear witness of the 1961 literacy campaign, which eradicated illiteracy in Cuba and provided free education for everyone at all levels.

China lamp
The lamp was the first of many sent from China to provide light to assist the learning project in poor countries worldwide
Sam Macartney with curator of the Museum of Literacy
Sam Macartney with curator of the Museum of Literacy

We were shown around this excellent museum of education and learning by the curator who herself was a lecturer in many poor countries who have requested Cuba’s assistance in bringing literacy to the masses.

Another great Cuban system which their government funds where and when requested.

 

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