In the latest release of the 2023 Prosperity and Financial Health Index, the Czech Republic finds itself at a concerning joint 15th position, signaling a decline in the quality of education and research within the European Union. The index, jointly issued by Europe in Data, Ceska Sporitelna savings bank, and the Institute of Sociology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, paints a sobering picture of the nation’s educational landscape.

While Nordic countries, alongside the Netherlands, continue to lead the index with notable strengths in education, science, and research, the Czech Republic hovers around the European average in most categories. Notably, its commendable 10th position in research spending (2% of GDP) contrasts sharply with its alarming 23rd position in the share of young people with tertiary education.

Ceska Sporitelna’s analyst, Tereza Hrtusova, emphasizes the inflexibility of the Czech higher education system, citing its failure to align with the dynamic needs of the labor market. Restrictive policies, including limited options for shorter study programs, hinder the nation’s ability to effectively prepare students for future employment.

A significant concern highlighted by Europe in Data analyst Tomas Odstrcil is the underrepresentation of young university students aged 25 to 34, constituting only a third of the population. This places the Czech Republic as the fifth-lowest among EU countries in this demographic, raising questions about the accessibility and appeal of higher education.

Adult participation in education also lags behind, with only 7.8% of the adult population engaging in courses or study programs, ranking the Czech Republic 19th among EU states. The most alarming trend identified is the substantial deterioration in innovation potential, reflected in a five-position drop to 17th place. Contributing factors include low investment, limited added value, insufficient digitization of state administration, and a burdensome bureaucratic environment for businesses.

As the Czech Republic grapples with these challenges, urgent attention and strategic reforms are imperative to revitalize its education and research sectors, ensuring they align with the evolving demands of a competitive global landscape.

Article by Prague Forum