Adi Joaquim Tolentino

The 2024 National Achievement Test (NAT) for Grade 12 results reveal that students across all regions and senior high school tracks remain at a Low Proficiency level, highlighting persistent learning deficiencies in key subjects.

Photo Courtesy of DepEd.

The national average score stood at 41.12, with only seven regions performing above this mark. The National Capital Region (NCR) led with 46.88, followed by the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) at 45.12 and Region VIII at 44.51. 

Other regions that surpassed the national average include Region IV-A (CALABARZON) with 43.85, Region III (Central Luzon) with 42.78, Region XI (Davao Region) with 41.89, and Region VI (Western Visayas) with 41.65.

In contrast, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) recorded the lowest score at 35.00, showing regional disparities in educational performance.

Across senior high school (SHS) tracks, students struggled the most in science, mathematics, language, and communication, subjects critical for higher education and employment.

The Academic Track performed best in Philosophy (55.14) but struggled in Mathematics (35.34) and Science (37.92) which may affect students entering STEM-related fields.

Similarly, the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) Track had even lower scores in Mathematics (30.97) and Science (33.25) which raises concerns about students' readiness for technical careers.

Meanwhile, Sports Track recorded the lowest performance with Mathematics (27.89) and Language and Communication (28.30) showing serious gaps in numeracy and literacy.

On the other hand, the Arts and Design Track did slightly better but struggled in Mathematics (31.49) and Science (34.21) which reflects broader weaknesses across all tracks.

These results highlight the country's growing learning crisis in STEM education and literacy which are important for future success.