Literacy rate: 96%

Numbers in tertiary education: 1.09m students

THE EDUCATION SYSTEM

Since 2000, government funding has given less priority to higher education and more to reforming and improving the antiquated school system, which is rigid and heavily exam-oriented. Free schooling is available from the age of six to 15 and there are also a number of private schools.

Enrollment levels at tertiary and vocational institutions are among the highest in the world.

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