In Mato Grosso do Sul, the chance of poor people getting rich is higher than in the rest of the country, says study

The main obstacle is public education. The poor quality of basic and secondary education has a direct impact on the income of Brazilians throughout their lives. According to IMDS, poor children who attend good public schools perform much better in adult life compared to those who went through precarious institutions.

Even in the states with the best rates – such as Mato Grosso do Sul – the chance of economic ascension remains low. “The Brazilian social elevator still operates with few vacancies,” says Paulo Tafner, CEO of IMDS.