This extensive report describes Colombian education under 86 primary subheadings in 14 chapters, as follows: 1) The national setting, 2) cultural and social influences on education, 3) educational landmarks and traditions, 4) school organization and administration, 5) planning and development, 6) preschool and elementary education, 7) public secondary system, 8) vocational education, 9) higher education, 10) teachers and their preparation, 11) private and church-sponsored education, 12) other programs related to education, 13) international and foreign educational influences, and 14) successes, problems, and prospects. Special attention is given to the country's educational history and to recent developments, including a significant effort to bring elementary education to the rural masses through ACPO, a program teaching literacy and basic life skills by radio. Another program, called ICETEX, has improved the educational offerings available to Colombian university students at home and abroad. A bibliography of over 150 items in English and Spanish is appended. [Figures 1 and 2 may reproduce poorly in hard copy due to small print.] (JK)