Revolutionary University or Political Ploy? School for the Poor Draws Controversy
CARACAS, Venezuela
Large block letters taped above the university entrance spell out “Long Live Socialism.” Fliers in the halls promote a workshop on Marxism, and posters exalt the achievements of President Hugo Chavez.
This is no ordinary university. Venezuela’s government is offering free schooling to thousands of students in a program that aims to revolutionize higher education in the country.
Critics say the so-called Bolivarian University, named after independence hero Simon Bolivar, puts more emphasis on ideology than academics.
Some professors acknowledge a political slant but say critical thinking is encouraged.
“We train our students ideologically and politically,” said Yamileth Uzcategui Gonzalez, coordinator of political and government studies. “To tell the truth, every university trains ideologically.”
