Thousands marched on the streets of Bogota on Wednesday, October 10 to express dissatisfaction with the nation's public education system.

Protestors say that budget for education has lagged behind inflation despite the fact that the public system continues to grow and accommodate more students, many of whom cannot afford private universities. They are also asking for better transparency.

According to the organizers, public universities are facing a deficit of US$1 million in outstanding salaries to professors and administrative expenses, and US$4.9 million to maintain quality in education and infrastructure.

Outside of Bogota, demonstrations also took place in Medellin, Bucaramanga, Cali and Barranquilla.

Massive march in the city of Bogotá for Public Education in Colombia