Telephone and telegraph service is operated by the government. About 60 percent of Guatemalans over the age of 15 can read and write. In general, Ladinos living in cities are more literate than rural Indians, and men are more likely to be able to read and write than are women. Schools through at least the third grade are generally available for all children, and primary education is compulsory. Educational supplies are limited, however, and many parents cannot afford them.
Attendance is poor among Indian children because they are needed to tend fields or work at home.
Only a third of school-age children attend classes at the secondary level. There are five universities in Guatemala City. The national University of San Carlos has an enrollment of nearly 50,000 students, the largest of any university in Central America. Government Guatemala is made up of 22 departments divided into municipios, or townships. Leaders of military revolts are prohibited from holding office.