This paper compares and contrasts educational and gender experiences in Latin America and Africa. It provides a brief background for each area and addresses some commonly recognized issues, such as access to schooling and dropping out. The article discusses educational policies and examines some less-commonly recognized issues in higher education, literacy, and the gendered nature of the teaching force. It describes how education is a social equalizer, and it provides an overview of the state response to education. In contrasting Latin America and Africa, it shows how economic constraints, social exclusion, and the need to respond to global forces have shaped each area. It states that the longer history of nations in Latin America, as compared to Africa, has resulted in higher levels of educational attainment but has not resulted in a society more conscious of social and gender equity. Although education is perceived as important for employment, it is differentially possessed by the poor and the non-poor. Educational problems regarding gender exist in both regions, and access is far from sufficient to provide a transformative education. Although basic education is promoted for girls, social mobility in Latin America today is associated with a completed secondary and higher education. (Contains 11 references.) (RJM)