The EU economy is at risk due to children's poor math and reading skills. A report from the European Commission warns that children’s math and reading skills are getting worse across the EU, creating a big problem for the region’s future economy. If students continue to struggle with basic skills, it could weaken the workforce and hurt the EU’s ability to stay competitive globally.
Over the last 12 years, more students have fallen behind in math, reading, and science. The situation got even worse in 2022, possibly because of school closures during the pandemic. The report showed that nearly one in three 15-year-olds in the EU cannot do basic math, and one in four has trouble with reading and science. This puts the EU far behind its goal of reducing underachievement to 15% by 2030.
These problems are a serious threat to the economy because businesses need skilled workers. Many companies are already struggling to find enough qualified employees, which makes it harder for them to grow and keep up with changes like the move to green energy and digital technology.
Some EU countries are taking steps to improve the situation. Finland is adding more required lessons, while the Netherlands is giving schools €500 per student to help them improve basic skills. The European Commission is also working on plans to invest in education, lifelong learning, and skills training. A new digital education plan is being prepared to help students and workers adapt to future challenges.
Improving basic math and reading skills is essential for creating a strong workforce. These efforts aim to give students and workers the tools they need to succeed in an evolving world and to support the EU’s economic future.
Picture: Young European children studying math (Designer)
