10/09/2025
The international report Education at a Glance 2025 from the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) was published recently, with this year’s edition focusing in particular on higher education. The report highlights key challenges for Iceland, including higher dropout rates from university studies compared to the OECD average. The OECD stresses that students need strong support, clearer guidance, and systematic career counseling in order to succeed and reduce dropout risk.
Two ministries emphasize the importance of career guidance
In a joint statement, the Ministry of Education and Children and the Ministry of Culture, Innovation and Higher Education endorsed the OECD’s findings and pointed out that the Icelandic government has already launched a wide range of initiatives to strengthen career counseling at all school levels.
The ministries specifically mention several new projects designed to support young people in their educational and career choices – among them Inspiring the future (Stækkaðu framtíðina), as well as What is your Next Step (Næsta skref) and Me and the Future (Ég og framtíðin). These projects all aim to broaden young people’s horizons, reduce uncertainty, and help them make clearer decisions about their studies and future careers.
Stækkaðu framtíðina as part of the solution
Stækkaðu framtíðina is an example of a project that strengthens the link between schools and the labor market. By welcoming volunteers into classrooms, students get the chance to hear directly from people in different professions – opening their eyes to new possibilities and offering inspiration for the future.
This approach aligns fully with OECD’s emphasis that all students should have opportunities to meet people from the world of work and understand how educational pathways can translate into real careers. Stækkaðu framtíðina is therefore a key tool to ensure that Icelandic youth receive the support they need to make informed decisions about their future.
Looking ahead
At Stækkaðu framtíðina, we will continue to develop the project in close collaboration with both ministries, schools across the country, and the hundreds of volunteers who have already signed up. In doing so, we contribute to strengthening career guidance and supporting the goals of Iceland’s education policy towards 2030.
Read the full press release from the ministries here:
OECD: Iceland needs to strengthen financing of higher education – Education at a Glance 2025
