The Norwegian Government has proposed a reading boost initiative in primary and lower secondary school to improve the reading skills and the motivation for learning, prioritising printed texts.

Strong reading skills are essential for learning, understanding us and others, and thinking critically. However, the reading abilities of Norwegian pupils have declined in recent years. In response, the Norwegian Government has proposed a national Reading Boost initiative, allocating NOK 20 million in the 2026 national budget to support this effort.

To achieve the goals of this initiative, the Government proposes the following measures:

• Introduce a minimum of 15 minutes of daily reading in schools to foster consistent reading habits.

• Increase the availability of physical books in schools and kindergartens.

• Invest in school libraries and prioritise printed textbooks.

• Encourage reduced screen time among younger children to make space for reading.

• Provide intensive reading instruction at all grade levels.

• Allocate funding to support work on reading difficulties.

This initiative forms part of the national Reading Enthusiasm Strategy for 2024–2030. It is also linked to the 2024 white paper A More Practical School (En mer praktisk skole), which aims to enhance pupils’ motivation for learning.

Over the past decade, there has been a downward trend in pupils’ well-being and academic performance, particularly in reading, science, and civic knowledge. By emphasising practical learning, the Government seeks to create a school environment where learning is relevant, engaging, and fosters a sense of achievement.

The key initiatives for this measure include:

• Increased physical activity and outdoor teaching.

• Improved school facilities and equipment for hands-on learning.

• Measures to reduce absenteeism.

• Mobile-free classrooms.

• A new system for teacher competence and career development.

For further information:

• https://www.regjeringen.no/no/aktuelt/-norske-barn-skal-bli-verdens-beste-lesere/id3115087/

• https://www.regjeringen.no/no/dokumenter/sammen-om-lesing.-leselyststrategien-2024-2030/id3040859/

• https://www.regjeringen.no/no/dokumenter/meld.-st.-34-20232024/id3052898/ 

Source: Eurydice Unit Norway