In Sweden, a quarter of 15-year-olds are at risk of functional illiteracy, unable to comprehend what they read, despite being able to read the words, warns brain researcher Martin Ingvar.

This issue, highlighted by recent PISA evaluations, indicates nearly 24% of ninth graders struggling with reading comprehension.

The consequences include societal inequality and dependency on others for understanding basic information.

Ingvar points out the challenge is more pronounced among children who speak a language other than Swedish at home.

He emphasizes society's responsibility to improve education and individual accountability for personal growth.