Saudi Arabia approves new public education system by royal decree

King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has issued a royal decree approving the new public education system, designed to strengthen governance frameworks and provide the necessary enablers to achieve its objectives, empowering the sector to enhance the quality of the educational environment and its outcomes.

The system aims to regulate the roles of the private and non-profit sectors in education, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and supporting the ongoing development of the Kingdom’s educational system.

Minister of Education Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Benyan expressed his gratitude to the leadership on the occasion of the approval, emphasizing that this step represents significant support for the advancement of public education and the enhancement of organizational and operational efficiency.

Strengthening governance and regulating participation

The new system enhances governance in public education by defining the roles of the Ministry of Education, the Public Education Affairs Council, and related entities. This supports the alignment of educational policies, plans, and programs, improves decision-making efficiency, and enables the ministry to develop regulatory, monitoring, and supervisory tools.

It also organizes the participation of the private and non-profit sectors in delivering educational services, boosts the attractiveness of investment and partnerships in the sector through clear regulations, and aims to improve service quality, expand educational options, and ensure the sustainable development of both public and private educational institutions.

Protecting rights and supporting diverse groups

The system affirms the protection of human rights in education, as well as the rights of students and teachers, by providing a safe and motivating educational environment that supports quality learning and enhances the student experience. It also reinforces the role of families in supporting the educational journey.

Additionally, the system supports quality care and education in early childhood, enhances services for students with disabilities, and promotes the care and development of gifted students, taking into account the diverse needs of all learners.

In this context, the Ministry of Education will coordinate with relevant authorities in the coming period to finalize the executive and regulatory provisions of the system, ensuring its implementation follows a clear methodology and supports the objectives of developing public education and improving its outcomes.

The public education system includes a number of provisions regulating educational stages, the Public Education Affairs Council, educational institutions, educational pathways, e-learning, lifelong learning, the educational environment, and the rights of students and teachers.