Literacy rate: 81%

Numbers in tertiary education: 287,172 students

THE EDUCATION SYSTEM

Some 1.8 million Libyans are in formal education. It is compulsory for nine years from the age of six and rates of attendance are very high, but it varies in quality and can be rudimentary in rural areas. Secondary education, from the age of 15, lasts for three years. There are 13 universities and several institutes for vocational training. The literacy rate has more than doubled from a level of 39% in 1970.

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004