The Commission recommends that the Colombian state adopt as many measures as needed to reduce inequities in Colombia and for the Government to ensure that the poorest sectors of the population are able to live in conditions such that their basic needs are met. These wealth inequities and increasing poverty levels also affect access to education. One of the principle reasons why children leave school is the cost of education. Although education itself is free, many families cannot afford the costs associated with schooling, such as buying clothing and materials and paying for transportation. For example, in 1991, the cost of education was named as the primary reason that young girls between 6 and 11 abandoned schooling.
Poor persons are thus likely to have lower educational levels.
In 1992, the population considered to be poor had an average of 4.32 years of schooling, while average number of years of schooling for the population not considered to be poor rose to 7.45. Because the level of schooling has a direct effect on wages earned, education is an important aspect of a cycle of poverty. Children from poor families receive fewer years of education than their wealthier counterparts and, as a result, obtain lower wages at adulthood. Their families thus tend to remain poor, making it likely that their children, in turn, will benefit from fewer years of education. The Commission has also received information indicating that the quality of education is not adequate in Colombia.