Afrodescendientes y la Educación Superior en Ecuador. Un Desafío de Inclusión y Equidad

The origins of the Afro-descendant population in the American continent date back to the colonial era. In Ecuador, as in Latin America, the arrival of enslaved people from various African regions was framed by their condition as merchandise and labor force destined for different economic activities (ranging from mining to domestic work), laying the foundations for cultural and racial mestizaje. In Ecuador, the Afro-descendant population has historically faced significant barriers in various areas, including education. Since the time of colonization, Afro-Ecuadorian communities have suffered systematic marginalization and exclusion, which is reflected in their limited access to educational resources and opportunities. These barriers have affected not only access to primary and secondary education but have also persisted in higher education, where racial discrimination continues to be a considerable obstacle.