WILLEMSTAD - The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) has today released a new publication on its website titled "Exploring Gender Differences in Education in Curaçao." 

This publication addresses the question: "To what extent are there differences between boys and girls in the educational levels and fields of study they pursue in Curaçao?" It examines various educational levels, including (special) primary and secondary education, as well as secondary vocational education, higher professional education, and scientific education in Curaçao. 

By analyzing census data, the publication reveals significant differences in the educational careers of boys and girls. Key points include: 

Special Education: Data from the 2023 census indicate a significant gender disparity in special education, with boys being notably overrepresented. 

Sector and Profile Distribution: In both the VSBO (Pre-Vocational Secondary Education) and HAVO/VWO (Higher General Secondary Education/University Preparatory Education), boys and girls are unevenly distributed across sectors and profiles, making gender-specific choices. 

Higher and Scientific Education: There is a notable difference in the representation of men versus women in higher professional and scientific education, with a significantly larger proportion of women participating. The trend observed in secondary education continues, where more theoretical programs tend to attract more women. 

CBS hopes that the information on gender differences in this publication will lead to further studies to investigate the underlying causes.