Kazakhstan’s 4th form pupils are named among the world’s smartest children

Astana, 29 January 2009, (Khabar) - Kazakhstan’s school pupils took part in PISA. Kazakhstan’s 4th form pupils have been named among the world’s smartest children as a corresponding conclusion was made as a result of research entitled “Trends in International Mathematics and Science Studies”. Kazakhstan’s school pupils took 5th place out of 50 being ahead of such countries as the USA and Russia. Inspired by the success achieved by the Republic’s pupils, the centre for educational quality assessment is planning to hold an international research project called “PISA” in April this year. Its ratings are well-known in the world and are acknowledged for its impartial knowledge assessment of 15-year-old children. The research takes places every three years and its tests measure levels of knowledge in such subjects as mathematics, natural sciences and reading skills. The project will also test children’s ability to analyze information and think logically.

Bazar Damitov, director, National Centre for education quality assessment:
- First of all, we have not moved far away from the Soviet educational system. I think it was a well-organised system especially for primary schools. Secondly, children of this age have a high motivation to study and they want it. This plays a key role as well.