Basque Education System and Multiculturalism

Secondary and Vocational Education

Secondary education is designed for students aged 12 to 16 years. It includes two cycles, each consisting of two grades. This stage is designed to transmit the basic elements of culture to students, preparing them to take on responsibilities and training them for the labor market.

Another vital stage is vocational education. This stage consists of two courses, and the minimum age to enter is 16. The objective of vocational education is to facilitate the entry of young people into the labor market and to respond to the requirements of the system of production.

Higher Education in the Basque Country

Higher education, also called university, consists of two types: public and private. In the Basque Country, there are two public universities:

• UPV/EHU (Universidad del País Vasco)
• UPNA (Universidad Pública de Navarra)

Additionally, there are three private universities:

• Deusto
• University of Navarra (Opus Dei)
• University of Mondragon

Among all cycles, only 38% of students complete their education, either partially or entirely, in the Basque language.

Adult Education and Language Schools

Adult education is available for those who want to improve their Basque language proficiency. Students attend “euskaltegi” language schools or Official Language Schools. Moreover, euskaltegis are subsidized by HABE. The Basque language can also be studied in Madrid at the Central Official School of Languages and in Barcelona. Most private schools where people study Basque are coordinated by:

• Alfabetatze Euskalduntze Koordinakundea (AEK)
• Ikas ari (IKA)
• Bertan

Inclusive Teaching and Multiculturalism

As future teachers, it is very important to accept all students, regardless of their characteristics, such as language, culture, social condition, or physical appearance. To further this goal, we will examine two key topics: multiculturalism and multilingualism.

Understanding Multiculturalism and Diversity

Multiculturalism is a situation in a society where more than one culture coexists. Different groups are encouraged to maintain their ethnic distinctiveness and to participate in the daily life of the larger society.

When different ethnic groups mix and interact together, it is known as a “melting pot.” However, when different cultures are allowed but kept out of participation in daily life, it results in a form of segregation. A multicultural society may not have a single culture for all groups, and no culture should take precedence over the others.

The Advantages of a Multicultural Society

Multiculturalism offers many advantages, including:

• Ending discrimination based on culture or race.
• Recognizing and celebrating cultural differences.
• Protecting cultural variety.
• Learning from different points of view.