Bukele: “Security Was Only the Beginning” as El Salvador’s PISA Results Reach Developed-Country Levels

El Salvador is drawing international attention for educational advances highlighted through a PISA for Schools assessment involving 171 schools, with results pointing to strong academic trends, student well-being, and innovative approaches to learning.

President Nayib Bukele shared a video showcasing the presentation of the results, including performance trends in science, reading, and mathematics, as well as indicators measuring students’ experience and well-being at school.

One of the standout figures presented was a 9.03 student life satisfaction score, compared with an OECD average of 7.22, highlighting a particularly positive perception of school life among participating students.

International assessors featured in the presentation described the results from the 171 participating schools as exceptional, with performance considered comparable to that of developed education systems. The assessment also highlighted positive indicators related to student-teacher relationships and family support, underscoring the broader environment surrounding student achievement.

The presentation also reflects growing international interest in El Salvador’s educational innovations. PISA representatives visited the country to examine initiatives being implemented in schools, including the use of artificial intelligence in classrooms and new approaches to teaching and learning.

The development comes as AI becomes an increasingly important component of education worldwide. The OECD’s latest PISA findings show that AI use for schoolwork is now widespread internationally and emphasize the importance of teaching students to use these tools critically and effectively.

For El Salvador, the PISA for Schools experience represents an opportunity to showcase how technology, teacher support, family engagement, and educational innovation can work together to strengthen learning outcomes.

The international assessment therefore goes beyond measuring performance, providing a platform for El Salvador to share emerging educational practices and learn from global experts while demonstrating the progress achieved through its evolving education strategy.