RURAL EDUCATION IN COLOMBIA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

Rural education in Colombia faces challenges in access, quality, and infrastructure, with significant gaps between urban and rural areas. In this regard, this article analyzes the structural challenges and emerging opportunities to transform the rural education system, evaluating connectivity policies and programs. Its purpose was to identify persistent obstacles and evaluate innovative strategies to guarantee inclusive education in rural contexts. From a methodological perspective, this is a qualitative descriptive-interpretative study based on official documents, institutional reports, and academic articles. Emerging categories such as educational gaps, teacher training, and pedagogical models were considered, contrasting quantitative data with qualitative analysis. Among the findings was that in terms of coverage, there is a 23.7% rate of school nonattendance in rural areas versus 17.9% in urban areas, with only 35% of students completing secondary school. Regarding infrastructure, 79.8% lack internet access, and 18.1% lack electricity. This percentage is higher in some regions, such as Vichada, where it is 68%. Another relevant aspect is the persistence of violence, reflected in a 34% rate of forced recruitment in PDET municipalities, affecting school retention. Regarding opportunities, investments of 4.9 billion euros annually are projected until 2030, including the Escuela Nueva model and Law 2156/2025 for inter-institutional coordination. It was concluded that closing gaps requires combining infrastructure, technology, and community participation. Although policies such as the PEER have reduced the gap in Saber 11 tests, challenges persist in implementation and financing.