However, it has been proved as well, that people above 45 have serious difficulties in the aforementioned categories, especially in counting, which often makes them exposed to the tricks of banks and several stores.

Adult Literacy and Lifeskills Survey was carried out in eleven countries and people between 16 and 65 years were examined based on their reading, counting and problem-solving skills. Although in Hungary, the research was started in 2007, results were only announced this year, due to the serious work behind it. Approximately 13,000 people’s skills were measured and it appeared that the reading and comprehensive skills of Hungarian people developed considerably in the recent ten years.

Interestingly, Hungarian women proved to be more competent in reading, counting and critical thinking, than men. It was surprising, because in all the other countries men scored higher, than women, at least in this part of the survey. However, it is sad that everyone above 45 seemed to lack appropriate counting skills and as such they could be easily tricked by financial institutions or stores.

The results also show that Hungary is far behind all the European countries concerning reading, counting, and critical thinking skills of employees. However, the considerable improvement of these skills shows that there is hope for those who performed properly in at least one of the tests.

Those, who faced serious problems in all the four categories should be encouraged by governmental programs to develop themselves to be able to apply for more rewarding jobs – says Tamás Köpeczi-Bócz deputy secretary of state. He claimed that people with poor skills should have been closed up to others with adequate skills, to ensure the way to reasonably paid jobs.

To realize their dreams, they have to perform better in at least two of the categories. However, these skills should be developed regularly to keep their knowledge up-to-date.

Translated from origo.hu by Andrea Siegel for XpatLoop.com