Saudi Arabia approves sweeping changes to public education system

Saudi Arabia has entered a new phase of educational reform with the publication of its updated public education law in the official gazette, introducing significant changes affecting students, teachers, and both public and private educational institutions. The new regulations will come into force 180 days after publication.

Under the new law, public education is now mandatory for children from age six to fifteen, recognized as a right for all and provided free of charge in government schools. The law also stipulates legal action against anyone who deprives a child of education or causes them to drop out during the compulsory years.

Key changes under the new law

1- Compulsory education from ages six to fifteen.

2- Public education is a universal right, offered free in government schools.

3- Legal measures against those responsible for depriving children of education during compulsory years.

4- Arabic designated as the primary language of instruction, with the option for additional languages under certain regulations.

5- Continued separation of boys' and girls' schools beyond early childhood, with exceptions governed by regulations.

6- Establishment of a new Public Education Council, chaired by the Minister of Education, to set policy and approve sector regulations.

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

8- Permission to establish schools, classes, or tracks specializing in fields such as programming, science, mathematics, arts, and Quranic studies.

9- Guidelines for accelerating 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- Creation of programs, schools, and centers dedicated to nurturing gifted students.

14- In-person learning remains the foundation at all stages, with regulated use of e-learning.

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

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

17- Prohibition on assigning students tasks based on individual teacher or administrative discretion if contrary to regulations.

18- Guarantee of student rights, including the right to file complaints, protection from harm, access to primary healthcare, and unconditional issuance of certificates of completion.

19- Allowing some teachers to teach subjects outside their specialization under specific conditions, training, and financial incentives determined by the council.

20- Dismissal of teachers or administrators for serious violations affecting public order or national unity, with a ban on returning to work in education in either the public or private sector.