Norway's Ministry of Education has announced a significant change in the mathematics curriculum for upper secondary education. Starting in the fall of 2027, the current subject Mathematics for Social Sciences (S-mathematics) will be replaced with two new courses: 'Mathematics for Economics' and 'Statistics'. This change aims to encourage more upper secondary students to pursue advanced mathematics, thereby enhancing their skills in quantitative fields that are increasingly relevant in today's economy.

The initiative, as stated by Knowledge Minister Kari Nessa Nordtun from the Labour Party, is part of a broader strategy to make mathematics more appealing and applicable to students' future studies and careers. By aligning mathematics education with subjects that have practical applications in economics and data analysis, the government hopes to equip students with essential skills that are vital in a data-driven world. This change is expected to increase student engagement with mathematics and prepare them better for both higher education and the workforce.

This shift in the curriculum reflects a growing recognition of the importance of quantitative skills in various fields, particularly in economics and social sciences. By revamping the mathematics offerings, Norway aims to address the declining interest in mathematics among high school students and to foster a generation of learners who are more proficient in mathematical reasoning and statistical analysis.