Students in Brazil often express their dislike for mathematics, stating phrases like "I hate this subject" and "I simply can't learn anything." Recent data from the Enem 2024 indicates a decline in the average score for mathematics, which fell from 535 to 529 points compared to the previous year. This trend highlights a growing concern regarding students' mathematical proficiency as they approach critical examinations.

The issue of mathematical proficiency begins before students reach their final year of high school. A report by the organization Metas Sociais, commissioned by Instituto Natura, revealed that the percentage of students completing high school with basic mathematical knowledge dropped to just 21.4% in 2023, down from 25.5% in 2019. This decline signifies a worrying trend in educational outcomes, as it underscores the challenges many students face in achieving fundamental mathematical skills.

As a consequence, the study found that a significant majority, approximately 80%, of students struggle with basic mathematical tasks such as solving percentage problems or managing numerical situations in everyday life. This alarming statistic highlights an urgent need for educational reforms and targeted interventions to enhance mathematics learning in Brazil, ensuring that future generations are better prepared for both academic assessments and practical life skills.