Serbia education system shows decline in student proficiency by age 15

International educational assessments reveal a significant performance gap among students in Serbia. According to TIMSS 2023 data, fourth-grade students performed above the international average, scoring 523 points in mathematics and 510 in natural sciences.

However, PISA 2022 results show a decline in proficiency by age fifteen. Approximately 43 percent of fifteen-year-olds in Serbia failed to reach the basic level in mathematics, while 36 percent struggled with reading and 35 percent with natural sciences. The PISA assessment specifically measures the ability to apply knowledge to real-life problem-solving, rather than mere memorization. Only 4 percent of students achieved top levels in mathematics, and roughly 2 percent in reading and sciences.

Factors contributing to this decline include classroom engagement and digital distractions. About 40 percent of fifteen-year-olds reported that students do not listen to teachers during most mathematics classes, and 34 percent noted that digital devices divert attention. Experts suggest that addressing functional illiteracy requires granting schools and teachers more autonomy, streamlining curricula, and providing continuous professional support, noting that a lack of political will currently hinders these systemic improvements.