This study, one of a series of publications on education in other countries, describes all major levels and types of education in Colombia against a background of the relevant economic, cultural, and social features of that country. The first two chapters depict features of Colombia essential to understanding the context within which its educational system functions. Chapter 3 discusses educational landmarks and traditions in hopes that by reflecting on unsolved problems in the past current problems in education can be better understood. The National Government has been responsible for educational activities, plans, and programs since the Ministry of Public Instruction was created in 1903. Chapter 4 explains school organization and administration, while chapter 5 emphasizes planning and development of education identifying problems and determining priorities. Enrollment increases are evident in kindergarten, elementary, secondary, vocational, and higher education. Much of this report (chapters 6 through 19) is devoted to reporting the history, purposes, structure and organization, facilities, curriculum, methods, problems, and criticisms of education at each of these levels. Other chapters on Colombian education are included on teachers and teacher education; private education; other educational programs; and international and foreign educational influences. The final chapter focuses on achievements and prospects for the future in Colombian education. A selected bibliography is included. (Author/SJM)