England's oldest University Oxford has been a seat of learning and controversy since 1096. This tradition continues to produce well-educated free-thinkers in demand throughout the world.
The University of Salamanca, Madrid in Spain is believed to be the fifth oldest university in the world still operating. Government meddling that began in 1854 reduced its academic status considerably, although today things are improving again.
French Education Minister Luc Chatel has reached out for further cross-Channel concord, by proposing English foreign language education for French toddlers aged three.
Cuban education has made vast strides since the revolution and is regarded by UNICEF as one of the world's best. Although there are no student fees this does not mean that it is free.
