Podcast in English
Text size
Bulgarian National Radio © 2026 All Rights Reserved

Bulgarian pupils bottom of EU league in maths, reading and science

Photo: BTA

Fifty-four per cent of Bulgarian pupils are below the critical minimum in mathematics, 53 per cent lack basic reading skills and 48 per cent are seriously deficient in science. These are the results of the PISA 2022 survey of 15-year-olds in 80 countries. Bulgaria ranked at the bottom of the European Union.

Neda Kristanova, director of the Centre for Assessment in School and Pre-School Education, said that "the influence of socio-economic environment and status is stronger than the average of the countries, which shows that there is still room for improvement in our education system in terms of equal access to quality education for all students".

The most important thing is that knowledge is used in life and that parents' involvement in education and reading plays a key role in students' performance," said Education Minister Galin Tsokov.



Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!
Listen to the daily news from Bulgaria presented in "Bulgaria Today" podcast, available in Spotify.

More from category

The sounds of Balkan rhythms and passionate flamenco warmed the hearts of the Bulgarian community in Washington.

The Bulgarian Embassy hosted the second concert of the 17th season of the Bulgarian Music Society in Washington.  On 14 November, guests enjoyed a unique show by two world-class artists, both originally from Bulgaria: Desi Jordanoff, a folk dance master,..

published on 11/18/25 4:23 PM

AI helps personalise learning in Bulgarian schools

Generation Z students (born 1995–2012) are widely using artificial intelligence in their learning, with teachers reporting that more than 85% complete homework and study with the help of digital assistants. Children tend to see AI as a partner..

published on 11/17/25 3:50 PM

Christmas is possible as early as November – Sofia in lights, bazaars and festive coziness

This year, Christmas has "arrived" in Sofia as early as November with the aroma of mulled wine, cinnamon and festive magic. Radio Bulgaria recommends that you visit some Christmas spots in the Bulgarian capital city: For those most impatient to..

published on 11/17/25 3:08 PM