Education: 19 weeks for the second term and 11 days of study during Ramadan

The Saudi Ministry of Education has announced the precise timeline for the second semester, a move aimed at clarifying the academic calendar for students, parents, and educators. According to the announced schedule, the second semester will last for 19 weeks, including extended breaks and weekends. Eleven days of in-person instruction will be allocated during the holy month of Ramadan, prior to the Eid al-Fitr holiday.

The context of the trimester system and the development of education

This announcement comes as the Saudi Ministry of Education implements the three-semester system, starting in the 1443 AH academic year. This system aims to enhance the efficiency of the educational process and align it with international standards by increasing the number of actual school days to bridge the educational gap that existed in previous systems. This transformation is a key component of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically the Human Capital Development Program, which focuses on improving educational outcomes and the global competitiveness of Saudi students.

Studying during Ramadan: Balancing academic achievement and worship

The issue of studying during Ramadan has always been a major concern for Saudi society. The allocation of 11 school days during the holy month underscores the Ministry's commitment to ensuring the continuity of the educational process without a prolonged interruption that could negatively impact academic performance. The Ministry typically provides flexible arrangements for Ramadan studies, including reduced school hours and adjusted class start times to align with the spiritual atmosphere of the month, thus preventing student fatigue and achieving a balance between academic obligations and religious observances.

The organizational and social importance of the academic calendar

Early and detailed announcements regarding the duration of the second semester (19 weeks) and the school schedule during Ramadan are of paramount importance, both socially and organizationally. They allow Saudi and resident families the opportunity to plan holidays and social events in advance, especially given the overlap of the semester with significant national and religious occasions. Furthermore, they assist school teachers and administrators in distributing the curriculum and exams in a balanced manner, ensuring that all courses are covered without undue pressure in the final days of the semester.

In conclusion, this calendar reflects the Ministry of Education’s commitment to moving forward with its development plans, taking into account time changes and religious occasions, to ensure a stable and effective educational environment that contributes to building a promising generation.