More than six million male and female students across Saudi Arabia returned to their schools and universities on Sunday to mark the commencement of the new academic year 1446 AH. The students were welcomed with flowers, gifts, and souvenirs, creating a joyous and festive atmosphere. The Ministry of Education has implemented a plan to enhance students’ passion and readiness for the school environment, focusing on values of seriousness, dedication, and commitment.
The Ministry of Education has developed a strategic and governance plan involving all sectors, departments, and education offices throughout the Kingdom. Minister of Education Yousef Al-Benyan urged students to arm themselves with knowledge, determination, and perseverance to serve their religion and country. The Saudi Grand Mufti, Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, advised students to make prudent use of their time and seek academic excellence as a weapon against distractions and temptations.
Security authorities have mobilized their capabilities to ensure the smooth return of students to their educational institutions. The General Traffic Department has implemented traffic plans and managed intersections in front of schools and universities to ensure the safety and security of road users. The Security Operations Center (911) has prepared for the new academic year by equipping a developed human cadre to respond quickly to reports and pass them on to relevant authorities.
About 500,000 teachers in over 30,000 public, private, international, and foreign schools across the Kingdom have resumed duty in preparation for the new academic year. This year also sees the introduction of Chinese language classes in select intermediate schools, aiming to evaluate progress and gradually extend Chinese language instruction to third-year high school students by 2029. Director General of the Education Department in Jeddah Governorate, Manal Al-Lahibi, revealed that the Chinese language curriculum will be implemented in 41 intermediate schools in Jeddah.
The start of the new academic year coincides with the second-round exams for students who did not pass certain subjects in the first round, as well as the distribution of new textbooks to students. The program aims to promote advanced education and knowledge in various fields. The Ministry of Education has formed committees and departments specialized in the supervision and implementation process within an integrated work system that includes educational and administrative staff and field teams.
In conclusion, the commencement of the new academic year in Saudi Arabia has brought excitement and enthusiasm among students, teachers, and administrators. The Ministry of Education’s strategic plan aims to enhance students’ passion and readiness for the school environment. Security authorities have ensured the safety and security of road users with traffic plans and intersection management. The introduction of Chinese language classes and the distribution of new textbooks aim to promote advanced education and prepare students to compete with the world in various fields.
