Research Summary: 1 in 3 EU students underachieve in reading or maths amid decline in basic skills and teacher shortages

One-third of European Union students are underachieving in foundational subjects such as reading and mathematics, with a quarter also struggling in science. This represents a significant decline in basic skills since 2015, placing the EU behind other advanced economies. Factors contributing to this trend include digital distraction, uncritical AI use, reduced parental engagement, and persistent teacher shortages, with disadvantaged students disproportionately affected.

Why it matters

The widespread underachievement in core academic subjects has significant long-term implications for workforce capabilities, economic competitiveness, and social equity across the European Union. A decline in basic skills impacts innovation potential and the capacity for future societal progress, demanding urgent strategic attention.

Key insights

• One in three EU students underachieve in reading or mathematics, and one in four in science.
• Less than one in ten students are top performers in any of these subjects.
• Reading, mathematics, and science skills have declined considerably since 2015.
• The EU continues to lag behind other advanced economies in student performance.
• Disadvantaged students face a much higher risk of underachievement.
• Digital distraction, uncritical use of AI, declining parental engagement, and persistent teacher shortages are associated with weaker PISA results and rising underachievement.

Source

European Commission — Education and Training — https://education.ec.europa.eu/whats-new/news/1-in-3-eu-students-underachieve-in-reading-or-maths-amid-decline-in-basic-skills-and-teacher-shortages