Saudi Arabia: Noor system implements exam bans for absences

In a move reflecting a firm commitment to strengthening school discipline, the Saudi Ministry of Education implemented an immediate electronic procedure this morning through the central "Noor" system. This procedure automatically closed the examination halls to students whose absences exceeded 18 days without a valid excuse. This measure coincides with the return of approximately six million students to their classrooms across the Kingdom to take their end-of-semester exams.

Noor System and Digital Transformation in Education

The Noor system is the cornerstone of the digital transformation at the Saudi Ministry of Education, connecting all educational institutions to a unified central database. Its role extends beyond simply recording grades; it also includes meticulous monitoring of attendance and absence, facilitating the transparent and fair application of regulations. The activation of the automated "disqualification" feature is part of the Ministry's strategy to enhance the efficiency of the educational process and ensure seriousness, aligning with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to improve educational outcomes.

Disciplinary regulations and weather modifications apply

Schools strictly enforced the school discipline regulations, barring students exceeding the permitted absence rate from entering classrooms. This sent a clear message that disregard for school time would not be tolerated. Meanwhile, the weather conditions and cold waves affecting the Kingdom necessitated exceptional measures regarding the start times of exams in six educational regions.

In order to ensure the safety of students, the education departments in the Riyadh and Eastern regions directed that the exams begin at nine o'clock in the morning, while the education departments in the regions most affected by the drop in temperatures, such as Tabuk, Hail and the Northern Borders, were forced to delay the start until ten o'clock in the morning, in a step that was welcomed by parents.

Test procedures and results monitoring

Field reports indicate that exams for boys' and girls' schools, from the third grade of primary school to the third grade of secondary school, proceeded smoothly, with supervisory committees maintaining a high level of preparedness. Educational staff immediately began the correction and review process after the exams concluded, and grades were promptly entered into the "Noor" system, racing against time to announce the final results by the end of the school day next Thursday.

Educational and social impact

Educational experts believe these firm measures will have a positive long-term impact on student behavior, reinforcing values ​​of responsibility and adherence to rules. Furthermore, the direct technological connection minimizes human intervention in the application of penalties, ensuring fairness for all students. Following this intensive week, Saudi families are preparing for the nine-day mid-year break, considered an important opportunity for students to recharge mentally and physically before resuming their studies.