Singapore Tops Global Rankings for Creative Thinking in PISA 2022

The 2022 PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) results revealed Singapore as the top-performing education system in Creative Thinking among 64 participating countries. An impressive 60% of Singaporean students achieved the two highest proficiency levels, more than double the OECD average of 27%. This success highlights Singapore’s strong emphasis on developing 21st Century Competencies, such as critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability.

However, despite their high creative thinking skills, many students are less confident in their own creative abilities. Less than half believed they could produce creative works like stories or drawings, indicating a need to build students’ creative self-confidence. Schools and parents can play a greater role in helping students recognize their creative potential.

Singaporean students also benefit from highly supportive learning environments. A large majority reported that their teachers value creativity and encourage original answers. At home, 84% of students said their families encourage them to try new things, reinforcing a culture that nurtures innovation.

Director-General of Education Ms. Liew Wei Li expressed pride in the results, stating that schools will continue to work with parents and community partners to offer diverse learning experiences, ensuring students are well-equipped to create new value in an ever-changing world.