Under Fidel Castro, education became universal—but he also stipulated that anyone who received this education would have to actively promote government policies both during and after their schooling. They would also be required to take government-approved courses that didn’t tolerate any criticism of socialism as a way of life. In other words, education was seen as key to the revolution taking hold and creating a literate population loyal to the government.
The Cuban government’s illiteracy campaign was an early example of mobilization—the revolution hitting the ground running. read more from The Atlantic Cuba's Literacy Campaign - Maestra film
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World Bank praises Cuba's Education
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Primary Education
Cuban education was nationalized in 1959 at a time when less than half the children had access to education. Today the island has the highest literacy rate in the world, although schooling does come at a cost of loyalty to the state, and an obligation to do community service as well. The process begins with 6 years of primary education, during which time the "3 R's" of reading, riting and rhymetic are taught.
--Grades 1-6, ages 6-11, 6 years
Middle Education
The purpose of the 3 years of middle education in Cuba is to provide a grounding in traditional school subjects like languages, technology and social science. Thereafter pupils choose to go on to secondary school, or switch to vocational training to prepare them for a practical career.
--Grades 7-9, ages 12-15, 3 years
Secondary Education
The final 3 years of schooling at secondary level are an extension of middle school. This time though academic standards are tighter, and enthusiastic participation in school para-military parades a must. School holidays are spent doing one or other form of social service - the Cuban ethos is built on giving back. Those who complete are awarded a bachillerato certificate.
--Grades 10-12, ages 15-18, 3 years
Vocational Education
A student who proceeds to vocational training following middle school may follow two streams. These are skilled worker courses, and programs that provide middle-level technicians. Graduates of the latter courses with good grades have the choice of going on to technological institutes for further training.
Grades 10-12, ages 15-18, 3 years
Tertiary Education
Tertiary academic excellence is not new to Cuba, with the University of Havana being established in 1727. Today universities, higher institutes, higher pedagogical institutes, centers of higher education and polytechnic institutes continue the tradition.
--Licenciatura, 4 years
--Diplomado, Maestria, Especialidad, 2 years
--Doctorado, 4 years
Source: Classbase
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University of Havana
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