According to andyeducation, Suriname’s educational system follows the model of a 6-3-3-4 structure, which consists of six years of primary school, three years of lower secondary school, three years of upper secondary school and four years of tertiary education. The primary and lower secondary levels are compulsory for all students, while upper secondary is optional. The primary level is divided into two cycles: Cycle 1 for students aged 7 to 11 and Cycle 2 for students aged 12 to 14. During this period students are taught the basics such as math, reading, science and social studies. Additionally, they receive instruction in physical education, art & music as well as religious education depending on their parents’ wishes. At the end of Cycle 2 students take an assessment test which determines whether they can proceed to the lower secondary level or must repeat a grade at the primary level. The lower secondary curriculum includes instruction in English language arts; mathematics; science; social studies; geography; history; business studies ; physical education ; health sciences ;technology & engineering ;music & art ; religion & ethics as well as other electives such as home economics or agriculture. Upper secondary education is divided into two levels: general and vocational/technical streams. Students in the general stream can choose from courses such as science & technology, humanities & social sciences or arts & design while those in vocational/technical streams may specialize in areas such as hospitality management, automotive engineering or information technology. At the end of this period students take an examination which determines their eligibility for higher educational institutions. Tertiary education in Suriname is provided by universities, polytechnics and professional schools offering courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate level with degrees ranging from bachelor’s degrees through doctorates depending on the institution and course chosen by the student. In addition to academic qualifications, many universities also offer vocational training courses designed to equip students with skills required for employment in various fields such as medicine, engineering or business management. Overall Suriname’s educational system strives to equip its citizens with knowledge and skills required for success in life while also instilling values that promote peace and harmony within society. The government has implemented various initiatives such as free primary school tuition fees and improved access to higher educational institutions through scholarships or financial aid programs in order to ensure that all citizens have equal access to quality education regardless of their economic background or gender identity. See educationvv for Suriname educational systems.
