Mathematics, reading, and science: Moroccan students still at the bottom of the pack

Moroccan students (aged 15) scored below the OECD average in mathematics, reading and science. These are the findings of the OECD’s Pisa 2022 survey, unveiled on December 05. Overall, average results were about the same as in 2018 in mathematics, and down on reading and science.

Around 6,867 students in 178 schools completed the assessments. Out of 81 countries, Morocco ranked 71st in mathematical literacy, 79th in reading comprehension and 76th in science (at the very bottom of the pack). Nearly 51% of the students (the highest proportion) belonged to the bottom international quintile on the socio-economic scale, meaning that they were among the most disadvantaged students taking the PISA test in 2022. For the OECD, Morocco is one of the countries that have made rapid progress in opening up access to education over the last ten years, notably by making great strides towards universal secondary education.

■ Solving complex situations: In Morocco, 18% of pupils have reached at least level 2 in mathematics, which is well below the OECD average (OECD average: 69%). At the very least, these pupils can interpret and recognize, without direct instruction, how a simple situation can be represented mathematically (for example, comparing the total distance on two alternative routes, or converting prices into a different currency). Hardly any of the students achieved top results in mathematics, which would have meant reaching level 5 or 6 of the PISA mathematics test (OECD average: 9%). At these levels, students can model complex situations mathematically, and select, compare, and evaluate appropriate problem-solving strategies to deal with them. Only in 16 of the 81 countries and economies taking part in PISA 2022 did more than 10% of students achieve competency levels 5 or 6.

■ Scientific knowledge: Around 25% of Moroccan students have reached level 2 or above in science (OECD average: 76%). At a minimum, these pupils can recognize the correct explanation of familiar scientific phenomena and use this knowledge to determine, in simple cases, whether a conclusion is valid on the basis of the data provided. In Morocco, almost no students were high achievers in science, meaning that they mastered level 5 or 6 (OECD average: 7%). These students can creatively and independently apply their scientific knowledge to a wide variety of situations, including unfamiliar ones.

F.Z.T.