Minister of Education, Science and Innovation Fernando Alexandre announced that mathematics (matemática) will become compulsory from the 10th to the 12th grade across all secondary school tracks, including vocational education (ensino profissional). Speaking during parliamentary hearings on the State Budget, Alexandre said the curriculum overhaul will establish a common core before students choose specialised subjects. The proposal is scheduled for public consultation in December and is planned to take effect in the 2028/2029 school year.
Government Proposes Mandatory Mathematics Through 12th Grade
Wednesday, 4 November 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
Fernando Alexandre is the Minister of Education, Science, and Innovation in Portugal's current government, which took office in April 2024. An economist by training, he previously served as a Secretary of State and is now responsible for managing the national school system and university funding. He recently sparked debate by suggesting that university tuition fees should be adjusted to account for inflation.
Vocational education (ensino profissional) is a secondary school track in Portugal that combines general academic coursework with technical and practical training. These three-year courses grant both a standard 12th-grade diploma and a Level 4 professional certification. Students can enter the workforce immediately after graduation or continue their studies at universities and polytechnics through specialized entrance exams.
5 sources
- Fernando Alexandre wants "mandatory Mathematics" until the 12th grade in all coursescnnportugal.iol.pt ·
- Government wants Mathematics to be compulsory until the 12th grade in all coursesrtp.pt ·
- Mathematics to become a compulsory subject from 10th to 12th gradepublico.pt ·
- Government prepares new secondary school curriculum with Mathematics as a mandatory subjectdn.pt ·
- Government wants Mathematics to be compulsory until year 12 in all coursesexpresso.pt ·
