Panama

The 1972 constitution, which, has been revised several times, establishes compulsory (and free) education between the ages of six to fifteen (article 91). While recognizing the right to private education, it grants the State the prerogative to supervise the curriculum and to intervene in private schools in order to help fulfill cultural and social goals and promote the best human, intellectual, moral, civic, and physical development of the students (article 90). Article 103 allows the teaching of the Roman Catholic religion in public schools, though students are not compelled to attend or participate in religious activities and ceremonies. Article 96 specifies that only Panamanian citizens teach national history and civic education in both public and private schools. Article 87 gives the right to parents to take an active role in their children's education. Articles 99 to 101 deal with University governance. Universities enjoy autonomy and academic freedom; they receive a generous budget, which, in turn, allows for a very low tuition. Article 102 recognizes the need for, and support of, special education programs while article 104 provides for educational programs for indigenous groups. Article 93 establishes State support for vocational educational programs, aimed at the working sector (educación laboral).