Newly released results from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 cycle reveal that students across the Western Balkans continue to perform well below the global average in reading, mathematics, and science.
The PISA test, administered to 15-year-olds in 81 countries and economies, measures core academic skills critical for success in today’s knowledge-based economy. While the average OECD score hovers near 500, Western Balkan countries lag significantly behind.
Serbia recorded the highest average score in the region at approximately 439, followed by Montenegro at 421. Other countries in the region posted notably lower results: North Macedonia at 389, Albania at 368, and Kosovo at 365. Kosovo’s score positions it near the bottom of the global rankings.
The data reflects a downward trend compared to previous assessment cycles, particularly in mathematics and reading. Socioeconomic disparities continue to play a major role, with students from disadvantaged backgrounds scoring substantially lower than their peers.
Resource shortages in schools, especially in economically challenged areas, contribute to the widening performance gap. Additionally, gender disparities are evident, with some countries experiencing declines in girls’ performance while boys’ scores remain more stable.
Despite these challenges, some resilience is evident. Albania and Kosovo report relatively high proportions of academically resilient students — those who achieve strong results despite adverse conditions. Albanian students also demonstrate positive attitudes toward learning and home support.
Experts emphasize that addressing these issues will require significant investments in teacher training, equitable resource allocation, curriculum modernization emphasizing critical thinking, and stronger engagement between schools, families, and communities.
As the Western Balkans strive for greater regional development and integration, education remains a key area requiring urgent attention to ensure future competitiveness and social mobility.