The Ministry of Education cancels the licenses of 74 private schools and clarifies the fate of the students
In a decisive move aimed at regulating the quality of the private education sector and ensuring the highest safety standards, the Ministry of Education issued a decision to revoke the licenses of 74 private schools across several cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This decision followed thorough and intensive monitoring that revealed serious violations related to compliance with approved operational regulations and requirements, posing a threat to the safety of the educational environment and the future of students.
Details of violations and reasons for closure
The ministry clarified in its statement that the observed violations were not merely procedural, but rather encompassed fundamental aspects affecting the security and safety of educational facilities. These violations primarily involved the absence of a valid operating license, in addition to the lack of a safety permit issued by the Civil Defense. These documents are essential requirements that cannot be compromised for the continuation of any educational activity, as they ensure the building's readiness to respond to emergencies and provide a safe environment for learning.
The context of educational reform and quality standards
This decision comes amidst fundamental transformations in the Kingdom's education sector, in line with the goals of Vision 2030, which focuses on raising the efficiency of education and improving its outcomes. The Ministry is continuously reviewing the status of private and international schools to ensure their compliance with modern standards. This measure underscores that investment in education is not merely about financial gain, but rather a national responsibility requiring full adherence to educational and structural standards. The Ministry will not hesitate to close any facility that fails to meet the minimum quality and safety requirements.
Gradual implementation of procedures before a decision is made
The ministry confirmed that the decision to close the schools was not unexpected, but rather came after exhausting all available legal avenues. This step was preceded by a series of regulatory measures and repeated warnings to the violating schools, granting them grace periods to rectify their situations. However, the schools' failure to comply with the corrective requirements, coupled with the increased risk resulting from the continued violations, compelled the ministry to take the immediate closure decision to protect lives and property and to ensure that no unregulated educational activity continues.
The fate of students and alternative solutions
Regarding the future of students enrolled in these schools, the Ministry of Education has developed an urgent plan to ensure the continuity of their education without interruption. The Ministry has approved the direct admission of students transferred from the closed schools to government schools near their residences. It has also given parents the option to transfer their children to other licensed private schools, thus ensuring their academic and psychological well-being in a structured and safe learning environment.
