Cape Verde, a West African island cluster, cultivates an education system, like a blossoming garden in the Atlantic, committed to offering every child a stellar learning journey. With a resolute focus on education, the government channels a substantial share of its resources into ensuring that every citizen’s gateway to learning remains wide open.
The Cape Verdean education system
Cape Verde’s academic training weaves a unique tapestry, intertwining Portuguese roots with a global vision. The nation’s substantial investments reflect a profound belief in learning as the engine of development. Overseeing this symphony of learning is the Ministry of Education, Family, and Social Inclusion, shaping the nation’s educational landscape.
Structure of the education system
Cape Verde’s educational system is set up as follows:
Pre-primary education (ages 3-5)
Although it is not required, pre-primary learning is growing in popularity. In this nation, there are numerous pre-primary state and private schools.
Primary education (ages 6 to 12)
In this country’s educational canvas, every child sets sail on the primary learning journey. Here, the national curriculum serves as the foundation, interweaving a myriad of subjects, from the sciences and mathematics to social studies, Portuguese, and languages.
Secondary education (ages 13 to 18)
Secondary education is neither mandatory nor accessible in this nation, where the educational landscape is shaped by a wide range of privately and government-run establishments. Upper secondary (ages 16–18) and lower secondary (years 13–15) are the two stages of academic schooling.
Tertiary education (ages 18+)
Cape Verde’s shores embrace both public and private tertiary education. Here, a wealth of undergraduate and graduate programs coexists with professional and vocational training, akin to a treasure chest of opportunity.
Unique features of education in Cape Verde
Cape Verde’s learning system uniquely integrates the teaching of both Portuguese and Cape Verdean Creole, fostering linguistic diversity and reflecting the nation’s cultural richness.
Bilingual education
Teaching Portuguese and Cape Verdean Creole is a major component of Cape Verde’s renowned bilingual learning program. This illustrates the rich linguistic diversity of the country.
Cultural integration
Cape Verde’s history, customs, and heritage are elegantly woven into the curriculum, fostering a deep sense of identity. Pupils embark on a captivating journey through the nation’s rich narrative.
Music and arts
In Cape Verde’s classrooms, students unlock enchanting realms of music and arts, an ode to the nation’s illustrious musical legacy. This harmonious inclusion not only breathes life into cultural traditions but also ignites the spark of creativity, where each note resonates like the pulse of a nation’s soul.
Inclusivity
Cape Verde extends a heartfelt promise to all children, including those with disabilities, assuring quality academic training. This promise ensures that every path to knowledge is open, and paved with equality and dignity.
Challenges of education in Cape Verde
Even though Cape Verde has improved its educational system significantly, several issues still exist:
Access to quality learning
Progress sails forth in the quest for educational accessibility, yet whispers of concern persist in some corners. The occasional tempest reminds us of the work that remains.
Limited tertiary institutions
Due to the scarcity of postsecondary educational institutions, there is fierce competition for university admission.
Teacher shortages
There is a teacher shortage in this nation, especially for specialized disciplines and in rural areas.
Special education needs
All children in this nation will get inclusive education, according to the government’s commitment. Children with a range of learning difficulties are served by several special needs schools in Cape Verde. Support services for children with special needs enrolled in conventional schools are also provided by the government.
Quality of education
In general, Cape Verde’s educational system is of high quality. There are certain differences between rural and urban locations, nevertheless. Urban schools typically have highly qualified teachers and ample resources. Schools in rural locations might not have as many resources and might not have as many skilled teachers.
You may also like
Living in Cape Verde – expat life