Al-Ahsa: 800 educators discuss improving learning outcomes in Nafes tests
More than 800 educators in Al-Ahsa Governorate, during a comprehensive meeting entitled "Early Systematic Preparation for the Nafes Tests," emphasized the paramount importance of integrated roles between schools and families. This strategic collaboration aims to improve learning outcomes and enhance student performance in national assessments, reflecting the Ministry of Education's commitment to developing the educational system in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
The journey of national evaluation and developing the quality of education
National assessments represent a pivotal step in the history of modern Saudi education. The Education and Training Evaluation Commission launched these initiatives to measure educational performance objectively and transparently. Standardized assessments are among the most important tools developed to evaluate the academic achievement of male and female students in Saudi schools. These assessments are based on international standards that aim to measure fundamental skills in reading, mathematics, and science, providing accurate data for decision-makers. This data contributes to the development of effective, evidence-based educational policies, which explains the significant attention given by educational administrations to early preparation for these assessments.
Enhancing teaching practices to support the vision generation
At the outset of the meeting, the Director General of Education in Al-Ahsa, Tawashi Al-Kinani, affirmed that school principals and teachers are the true partners in shaping the "Vision Generation," on whom the nation is relying and building its future. Al-Kinani explained that the school represents a major "system of influence," noting that assessment results are a true indicator of the quality of education within the classroom, thus requiring early and systematic preparation. He emphasized that improving learning outcomes begins with improving teaching practices, stressing the importance of supporting and empowering teachers, and the necessity of preparing students psychologically and academically to confidently take national and international assessments.
The strategic impact of successful Nafes tests locally and regionally
The impact of excelling in the Nafis tests extends beyond the local level of the school or educational administration, creating a regional and international effect that enhances the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's standing in global competitiveness indicators. Locally, these results contribute to creating a positive competitive environment among schools striving to reach the "excellence" category. Internationally, improved performance in national assessments directly translates into better results for Saudi students in international tests such as PIRLS and TIMSS, highlighting the development of Saudi human capital and its ability to compete in the global knowledge economy.
School commitment and reducing learning loss
The Director of Education emphasized the importance of strict school attendance and minimizing learning loss through the development of precise remedial plans. He called for utilizing the unified support system and self-assessment to address learning gaps. Al-Kinani urged students to be trained for aptitude tests and to benefit from best practices, stressing the need for early preparation for standardized tests to ensure the province achieves the results it deserves. He also highlighted the importance of activating parent councils and building effective communication channels with families, asserting that instilling values of quality and teamwork has a profound impact on performance and final outcomes.
A tangible shift in school standards in Al-Ahsa
For his part, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Fallah, Assistant Director General of Education for Educational Affairs, reviewed key aspects of implementing the upcoming assessments, highlighting the Education Department's position in the Education Evaluation Commission's rankings. Dr. Al-Fallah expressed his optimism regarding the tangible improvement in school performance on the ground, emphasizing the Education Department's aspiration to increase the number of schools achieving the "Excellence" category in the governorate during the next phase.
Khaled Al-Otaibi, Director of the Cognitive Performance Evaluation Department, presented a paper identifying the "Mastery Gap and the Path to Skills Sustainability" through a diagnostic analysis of core subject and formative assessment results for the primary stage. Manal Al-Bahli also presented an analytical review of the mock exam results, aiming to identify students' strengths and address areas for improvement before the actual start of the academic year. The meeting concluded with an open session where the Director General of Education answered questions from school leaders, emphasizing the continued support and follow-up to achieve the ambitious national goals in the Al-Ahsa education sector.
