However, he said efforts by some countries, including Türkiye, show that progress is still possible.
“They have not found a magic wand, but built consistent systems, mobilised local resources to make education sustainable, and invested in labour market policies where better skills translate into better jobs and better lives,” Schleicher said.
“That is the first lesson for the future: working systems already exist,” he said, adding that by 2030 the global community could either conclude it failed to meet its goals or recognise it achieved the largest expansion of education in human history and now understands what is needed to complete the task.
Stefania Giannini, UNESCO assistant director-general for education and former Italian education minister, also highlighted Türkiye as a successful example, saying its progress shows that effective solutions require a comprehensive approach beyond a single policy area, including financing, human resources and infrastructure.