focus time and resources into schooling. Make education a number one priority. Make education a prideful thing, something to brag about. Encourage parents to take an active role.
In the schools get back to basics. Make sure that every student can read, do math, and write coherently. Teach them history in a thorough, factual manner. Teach sociology, anthropology. Ensure that every student graduates but, more importantly, make sure that every student has earned the right to graduate.
Pay teachers what they are worth. If they aren't good at their jobs, fire them. If they are good, give them raises and praise and commend them for their work. Get rid of the educational bureaucracy.