A recent OECD study has revealed that Finnish adults have the highest scores in literacy, math, and problem-solving skills, with Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands following closely behind. On the other hand, Portugal, Poland, Italy, and Lithuania scored below the OECD average in all three competences. Despite efforts to strengthen education and adult training systems, there is still a significant skills gap that leaves many ill-prepared for the future. Individuals between the ages of 55 and 65 generally exhibit lower proficiency than younger adults, with the best results seen among those aged 25 to 34. Additionally, adults with highly educated parents tend to have better literacy skills, but the socio-economic skill gap is smallest in Spain.
The study, which surveyed 160,000 adults across 31 countries, found that despite improvements in education and training systems, there is still a disparity in skills among adults. Poland, Lithuania, Italy, and Portugal scored lower than the OECD average in adaptive problem-solving, with adaptive problem-solving being a crucial skill for future success. Older adults between the ages of 55 and 65 tend to have lower proficiency compared to younger adults aged 25 to 34. Additionally, adults with highly educated parents have better literacy skills, but there is a smaller socio-economic skill gap in Spain, where parents’ education only accounts for a seven-score-point difference among adults.
The OECD study also found that adults with higher numeracy skills are more likely to be employed, earn higher wages, and report better health and life satisfaction compared to those with lower numeracy skills. In some countries, adults with high numeracy skills are more likely to feel they can understand and influence political affairs. Despite efforts by governments and social partners to strengthen education and adult training systems over the past decade, the study reveals a sharply uneven skills landscape that leaves many ill-prepared for the future. The disparities in skills proficiency highlight the need for continued efforts to improve education and training systems to ensure all adults have the necessary skills for success in the future.
Overall, the study underscores the importance of literacy, math, and problem-solving skills for adults in today’s rapidly changing world. Adults in Finland, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands have achieved the highest scores in these areas, while Portugal, Poland, Italy, and Lithuania lag behind the OECD average. The skill gap between adults from different socio-economic backgrounds is smallest in Spain, emphasizing the need for inclusive education and training programs. Despite improvements in education and adult training systems, there is still work to be done to ensure all adults have the skills necessary for success in the future. Adults with higher numeracy skills tend to have better outcomes in terms of employment, wages, health, and life satisfaction, highlighting the importance of investing in adult education and training to bridge the skills gap.
