Education
 Panama has one of the highest literacy rates in the region, with more than 90% of the population literate. A significant percentage of Panamanians speak English well, and also hebrew, mandarin and other languages. There are more than five private universities in Panama, plus a major catholic university and the state institution, the University of Panama.
The annual budget for education accounts for approximately 20% of public spending. Over 95% of primary and secondary school students successfully complete their education, although only about 60% finish their studies in the scheduled length of time. Average schooling is closed to 7 years against an average of 10 in the most developed countries.
R&D in universities is becoming more practically oriented towards society’s needs. Panama needs more well-trained scientists and technicians for the new challenges in the development of the country as a major player in maritime, telecommunications, scientific, ecological and internet sectors.
Educational Infrastructure
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|
Budget assigned to education
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US$ 710.8MM
|
|
Literacy
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97.3%
|
|
Illiteracy
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2.7%
|
|
Credits to higher education
|
1,418
|
|
At national level
|
1,116
|
|
At international level
|
302
|
|
Scholarships granted
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18,649
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|
At national level
|
18,450
|
|
At international level
|
99
|
|
Technical formation registered in 2000
|
19,134
|
|
Enrollment at national level
|
|
Elementary
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419,903
|
|
High school
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251,228
|
|
University
|
130,026
|
|
Graduated at national level
|
|
High school
|
57,504
|
|
University
|
58,503
|
|
