The maze of equity in education in Central America

Abstract

Since modernity, education has played a fundamental role in building both liberal democracies and development, based on the principles of freedom and equity. However, the levels of poverty in the Central American region, particularly in the northern triangle, combined with low coverage and quality of education reinforce social, cultural and economic inequalities, and make impossible the people’s well-being and prosperity. This article addresses different approaches of equity which are discussed around the world and in the Latin American region. It also describes the precarious current situation of Central American education that affects more than half of the population living in poverty. It also shows the irrationality of a reality that not only widens the gaps between rich and poor, but also increases the number of families living in inhuman conditions and without educational opportunities, condemning the construction of an authentic democracy and sustainable development to their failure.