Morocco's performance in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) has declined significantly compared to 2022, according to results released by the OECD. The country's average score in mathematics fell by 10 points, while reading dropped by 18 points. In reading, 87% of Moroccan students performed below the minimum proficiency level (Level 2), meaning they struggle to comprehend and use written texts effectively.
These findings highlight persistent challenges in Morocco's public education system, particularly in equipping students with foundational skills. The decline in reading is especially concerning, as it suggests that a large majority of students are not acquiring the literacy needed for further learning and employment. The results also raise questions about the system's ability to promote social mobility, as the article's title suggests that public schools are losing their role as a lever for upward mobility for students from modest backgrounds.
While the full PISA 2025 report provides detailed insights, the initial figures indicate that Morocco remains far below the OECD average and many of its regional peers. The drop in scores may reflect disruptions in learning, resource constraints, or other systemic issues. However, without the complete data, it is difficult to pinpoint exact causes. The Moroccan government has not yet issued a detailed response to these results.
This decline underscores the urgent need for comprehensive education reforms in Morocco. Improving teacher training, curriculum quality, and access to learning resources could help reverse the trend. As the global economy increasingly demands higher-order skills, Morocco's ability to compete depends on strengthening its education system and ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have the opportunity to succeed.
