RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s education system is responding to an urgent demand to boost students’ global competitiveness and meet the future needs of the country, Education Minister Dr. Hamad bin Mohammed Al Al-Sheikh said.
The minister was speaking at a meeting on Thursday with the editors-in-chief of Saudi newspapers and heads of media channels.
Al-Sheikh said that recent in-depth developments in education are the result of specialized studies carried out by the ministry over the past two years.
Educational advances “will help the sons and daughters of the country develop their skills, respond to their aspirations and enhance their global competitiveness,” he said.
Al-Sheikh highlighted the ministry’s efforts to bridge the gap between educationally advanced countries and the Saudi educational system in terms of number of study days.
The issue will be addressed with the implementation of a three-semesters system next year, he added.
Improving the efficiency of the educational system in accordance with best international practice will help the Kingdom meet its Vision 2030 goals, the minister said.
The first phase of the development project began with the announcement of curricula and study plans and the implementation of the three-semester plan to help the Kingdom improve its achievements in international tests.
Al-Sheikh praised educators’ dedication in “fulfilling their mission, and meeting all expectations and responsibilities.”
He highlighted the support for education from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying that both view investing in human resources as a top priority in order to achieve a distinct Saudi model in education.
