Saudi Arabia enacts new public education system with 20 key changes

Saudi Arabia's new public education system has officially come into effect following its publication in the official gazette. The sweeping reforms impact students, teachers, and both public and private educational institutions, and will be implemented 180 days from the date of publication.

The new system aims to redefine adult education in the Kingdom, shifting the focus from basic literacy to a broader concept of lifelong learning. This approach expands opportunities for continuous education and aligns with the needs of society and the labor market.

New public education system

Key changes in the new system include:

1- Mandatory education for children from age six to fifteen.

2- Public education is a right for all and is provided free of charge in government schools.

3- Legal measures will be taken against anyone who deprives a child of education or causes them to drop out during the compulsory years.

4- Arabic is the primary language of instruction, with the possibility of teaching in an additional language under specific regulations.

5- Girls’ and boys’ schools will remain separate after early childhood, except in cases defined by regulations.

6- A new Public Education Affairs Council will be established, chaired by the Minister of Education, to set policies and approve sector regulations.

7- Introduction of vocational and specialized educational tracks aligned with labor market needs.

8- Permission to establish schools, classes, and tracks specializing in fields such as programming, science, mathematics, arts, and the Qur’an.

9- Regulations to accelerate the advancement of outstanding students to higher educational levels.

10- Launch of early screening programs for developmental or behavioral disorders among students.

11- Enhanced integration of students with disabilities in schools, with supportive technologies provided.

12- Provision of digital and remote learning programs for students with disabilities who cannot be integrated.

13- Establishment of specialized programs, schools, and centers for gifted students.

14- In-person learning is the standard at all levels, with e-learning used according to regulations.

15- Private schools must obtain school accreditation from the Education and Training Evaluation Commission or an approved international body.

16- Regulation of private school tuition fee adjustments according to standards set by relevant authorities.

17- Students may not be assigned tasks resulting from individual decisions by teachers or administrators if they violate the system or regulations.

18- Student rights are guaranteed, including the right to file complaints, protection from harm, access to primary healthcare, and unconditional receipt of graduation certificates.

19- Some teachers may be assigned to teach subjects outside their specialization under certain conditions, with training and financial incentives determined by the council.

20- Teachers or administrators found guilty of serious violations that undermine public order or national unity will be dismissed and barred from working in education in both public and private sectors.