The education departments in the Jazan and Asir regions, along with several universities and training institutions, announced the suspension of in-person classes on Monday, switching to distance learning. This decision came in response to reports issued by the National Center for Meteorology, which warned of unstable weather conditions and heavy rainfall that could affect the safety of students and education staff.
Details of the suspension of studies in Jazan and technical facilities
In the Jazan region, the General Directorate of Education confirmed the suspension of in-person classes at all schools, directing that the educational process continue through the "My School" platform for all students, teachers, and administrators. Simultaneously, the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation announced the suspension of in-person training at all its facilities and private training centers in the region, transitioning to remote training to ensure everyone's safety.
Procedures in the Asir region and universities
The suspension of classes affected the entire Asir region, with the Education Department announcing the shift to the "My School" platform for schools in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Ahad Rafidah, Rijal Alma, Mahayil, Al Majardah, and numerous other governorates within the region. King Khalid University took a similar step, suspending in-person classes at its main campus and all branches, relying on the "Blackboard" system to ensure the continuation of lectures. For its part, Bisha University announced the suspension of classes at its colleges in the Al Namas and Balqarn governorates for the same reason.
Digital readiness and the continuity of education
This seamless transition to distance learning reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's success in building a robust digital infrastructure for the education sector. Suspending in-person classes due to weather conditions no longer means a halt to academic progress, as was the case in previous years. The "My School" platform and the university's "Blackboard" system have become effective tools that ensure the continuity of education under various circumstances, a testament to the Kingdom's Vision 2030 for digital transformation and empowering technology to serve society.
Decision-making process and student safety
Decisions to suspend classes are subject to a precise mechanism based on direct and continuous coordination between the Ministry of Education, the National Center for Meteorology, and the General Directorate of Civil Defense. The Ministry grants authority to directors of education and university presidents to make the appropriate decision based on the actual weather conditions in each region, in accordance with the principle of "safety first." These precautionary measures primarily aim to protect students from the dangers of flash floods or water accumulation that may result from heavy rainfall, and to prevent traffic congestion during severe weather conditions.
