Exploring education for wellbeing in Peru

Abstract

Education is a critical element of development to attain human wellbeing. This chapter discusses the importance of education to attain wellbeing and sustainability as fundamental elements of sustainable development. The relationship between sustainable development and wellbeing will be analyzed and how education relates to sustainable development and finally, how aspects of Peruvian education relate to sustainability are identified. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development indicates that health, education, and employment are the most critical factors associated with wellbeing. Education is essential to developing full potential in life, optimizing holistic development, integrating intelligence, sensitivity, and spirituality; increasing resilience; strengthening independence and critical thinking; and reducing vulnerabilities to attain a better future. The Peruvian educational system has compulsory school education and higher education. Compulsory education lasts twelve years including one year of preschool education, six years of primary school, and five years of secondary school. In Peru, public education is universal and free of charge. © 2019 selection and editorial matter, Paola Ochoa, Maria-Teresa Lepeley, Peter Essens; individual chapters, the contributors.