Panama's Education System Faces Crisis: UNICEF and PISA Reveal Stark Realities

Panama's Education Crisis: UNICEF Report Reveals Alarming Illiteracy Rates and PISA Test Failures Panama faces a significant education crisis, according to a recent UNICEF report and results from the PISA test. The report highlights that 8% of children aged 6-17 are unable to read or write, a stark reality that demands immediate attention. These findings are further corroborated by the PISA test results, which reveal that a majority of 15-year-old Panamanian students fail to meet minimum proficiency levels in both mathematics and reading. This is despite Panama's considerable investment in education, allocating approximately 7% of its GDP to the sector. "The neglect of education is a catastrophe," states Ernesto León, consultant for the Fundación Mentes Brillantes. "We're gambling with the future." León emphasizes the direct correlation between a country's education system and its future competitiveness. The video also underscores the issue of inequitable access to resources. Many schools lack basic amenities such as electricity and internet access, hindering effective learning. The recent teacher strike further exacerbated the situation, resulting in the loss of over a month of classes. Despite these challenges, Panama's commitment to education remains evident through its substantial financial investment. The government's decision to utilize a regional evaluation developed by UNESCO in place of the PISA test demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the identified shortcomings. The path forward requires a concerted effort to improve access to resources and ensure quality education for all Panamanian children.