Argentina's PISA scores fall, Milei government blames predecessors

Argentina's 15-year-olds performed below their 2022 levels in mathematics, reading, and science according to the latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results released on Tuesday. The Milei government attributes this decline to previous administrations' education policies, describing it as "critical." However, critics argue the deterioration is linked to budget cuts in public education under the current government's approach.

The Human Capital Ministry stated that the results reflect the learning of students after 12 years of schooling, mainly those who began their school careers in 2013. Milei took office in December 2023. The ministry cited an "educational culture" established over years by Kirchnerite governments, alleging that previous policies damaged the system.

The government is seeking to reverse the trend through the National Literacy Plan and National Mathematics Plan, aiming to improve reading, writing, and mathematical abilities. PISA, conducted every three years by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), assesses 15-year-olds' knowledge and skills in these subjects.

This year, Argentina's 11,093 students in 412 schools scored 367 in mathematics, 389 in reading, and 393 in science. These results are below the previous 2022 scores and the 2018 average. Argentina ranked 62nd in mathematics, 75th in reading, and 71st in science among 91 countries and economies.