Classes in Qassim suspended and switched to remote learning due to bad weather conditions
Qassim University and the region's Education Department announced the suspension of in-person classes for Tuesday, switching to distance learning for all students, faculty, and administrative staff. This decision was made in response to reports from the National Center for Meteorology and to ensure everyone's safety given the current weather fluctuations in the region.
Details of Qassim University's decision
Qassim University confirmed in its official statement that the decision includes all colleges and branches of the university across the region's various governorates. Approved electronic systems (such as Blackboard) will be activated to ensure the uninterrupted continuation of lectures, reflecting the university's high level of digital preparedness to handle emergency situations.
Transfer of study in public education schools
For its part, the General Directorate of Education in the Qassim region has directed all public schools to switch to online learning via the “My School” platform. This measure aims to ensure the safe continuation of students’ education from their homes and to avoid the risks that may arise from traveling during the expected heavy rains and flash floods.
The role of the National Center for Meteorology and Early Warning
Educational authorities in Saudi Arabia base their decisions regarding school closures on a mechanism coordinated with the National Center for Meteorology and Environmental Protection. The center issues early warnings about weather conditions, classifying them based on their severity and potential impact. The Qassim region is among those that experience seasonal weather fluctuations, sometimes necessitating precautionary measures to protect lives and property.
The importance of digital transformation in the continuity of education
This event highlights the Kingdom's significant success in developing its digital education infrastructure. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the suspension of in-person classes no longer meant a halt to education, but rather a flexible and rapid shift towards virtual classrooms. The "My School" platform and university systems contribute to minimizing learning loss and underscore the success of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 in enabling digital transformation across all vital sectors.
Safety first
The Ministry of Education and regional education departments place the safety of students and teaching staff at the forefront of their priorities. The Ministry grants education directors and university presidents the authority to suspend classes based on field data and reports from relevant authorities, thus enhancing the flexibility to make appropriate decisions at the right time to ensure a safe and stable learning environment.
