The General Directorate of Education in Madinah officially announced the approved schedule for the start of the school day in all schools for boys and girls in the region during the holy month of Ramadan for the academic year 1447 AH. This announcement comes as part of early preparations to ensure the smooth and flexible operation of the educational process, in keeping with the spirituality of the holy month and the conditions of fasting.
Attendance and dismissal times in city schools
The administration clarified in its statement that the official start time for all morning schools will be from the first day of Ramadan, with the first period beginning at 9:30 AM . This timing aims to give students and teachers ample time to rest after performing the Fajr prayer, which will positively impact their focus and academic performance during the daytime.
Regarding continuing education schools (evening schools), the administration indicated that the first class will begin at 9:30 PM . This timing takes into account the times for breaking the fast and Taraweeh prayers, making it easier for students in this program to balance their religious and social obligations with their continued education.
The context of the decision and its educational and social importance
This step falls within the powers granted by the Ministry of Education to regional and provincial education departments to determine the appropriate start time for the school day, in accordance with the geographical and social conditions of each region. This flexibility is a key part of the Ministry's strategy to ensure an attractive and stimulating learning environment, especially during periods requiring exceptional schedules, such as the holy month of Ramadan.
From a health and educational perspective, education experts confirm that delaying the start of the school day during Ramadan significantly improves academic performance. The change in sleep patterns, including waking up for suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) and performing religious rituals, necessitates adjusting school hours to prevent fatigue and lethargy among students. Furthermore, this timing helps alleviate traffic congestion during the early morning hours, ensuring that students and teachers arrive at their schools safely and smoothly.
The Madinah Education Department concluded its statement by emphasizing its full commitment to creating all the appropriate conditions within schools to welcome the holy month, praying to God Almighty to grant everyone success and to accept everyone’s fasting and prayers.
