Latest news with #JalalAl-Tabtabaei
Kuwait Times
02-08-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait's education reform plan 60% complete: Minister
Al-Tabtabaei vows quality shift in public education in meeting with Kuwait's Prime Minister KUWAIT: Kuwait's ambitious 2025–2027 Education Reform Plan is over 60 percent complete, according to the Ministry of Education, with major milestones already in motion — including the launch of a new office for gifted students and the finalization of a revamped national curriculum for kindergarten through Grade 9. The updates were presented this week by Minister of Education Jalal Al-Tabtabaei during a meeting at Bayan Palace chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Al-Tabtabaei outlined the reform plan's six pillars — administrative, financial, engineering, education development, digital transformation, and international standards — which together include 39 strategic goals, 61 percent of which have already been achieved. He stressed that the plan is 'progressing according to a well-studied timeline.' Gifted students office One of the key initiatives is the creation of a dedicated office for gifted students, which the minister described as 'a platform to discover and develop student potential and provide a learning environment that fosters creativity.' The new office is part of the broader education development track, which also includes integrating AI and cybersecurity into Grade 10 computer science classes and updating teaching approaches to meet future learning needs. Earlier this week, the ministry confirmed it has completed 88 textbooks for the upcoming curriculum: 2 for kindergarten, 46 for primary, and 40 for secondary levels. The books are now undergoing final language and design checks ahead of printing. To reduce the burden on students, textbooks will be divided into four smaller parts spread across the academic year, starting in 2025–2026. The curriculum also includes 21st-century skills like critical thinking, self-learning, and problem-solving, with inclusive content tailored for different student needs. Training programs to prepare teachers for the new curriculum will begin ahead of the next academic year and will be offered both in person and online. The minister stressed that the education reform plan is progressing on schedule, 'with a commitment to applying best administrative practices to ensure a quality shift in public education in the State of Kuwait.' The meeting was attended by Sheikh Khaled Mohammad Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, Acting Chief of the Prime Minister's Diwan, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education Mohammad Ghaleb Al-Khalidi, and several senior education officials. — KUNA
Kuwait Times
30-07-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait's Education Ministry finalizes curriculum overhaul
88 new textbooks span KG to Grade 9; Redesign includes lighter book loads KUWAIT: Kuwait's Ministry of Education has completed the development of new national curricula for kindergarten through Grade 9, just months after Education Minister Jalal Al-Tabtabaei ordered a full overhaul in April. In a high-level meeting with subject supervisors on Monday, the Ministry revealed new details about the scope and structure of the redesigned curriculum — part of a sweeping reform aimed at modernizing teaching standards, lightening student workload and aligning education with global benchmarks. The minister emphasized the need for strong coordination between curriculum developers and educators to ensure smooth implementation. 'Comprehensive training plans must be developed to prepare teachers for the new curriculum,' Al-Tabtabaei said, noting that training sessions will be held before the start of the 2025-2026 school year. The Ministry confirmed that 88 textbooks have been completed for the first semester alone: 2 for kindergarten, 46 for the primary stage, and 40 for the intermediate stage. All books are now undergoing final language and design reviews in preparation for printing. To ease student load, the new textbooks will be printed in four smaller parts, spaced throughout the school year. The goal is to improve content delivery while reducing the weight of schoolbags. Training for teachers will begin ahead of the 2025-2026 academic year, with sessions offered both in person and online via Microsoft Teams. 'Comprehensive training plans must be developed to prepare teachers for the new curriculum,' Minister Al-Tabtabaei said. He underscored the importance of collaboration between authors and field educators to ensure effective implementation. One of the most significant changes affects the English curriculum, which now aligns with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) and international tests such as IELTS and TOEFL. The new program focuses on developing well-rounded learners with strong listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, targeting CEFR levels A1 to B1. Arabic language instruction has also been upgraded to reinforce critical thinking and communication. The redesigned Arabic textbook includes four teaching units, each built around two key themes that support a full range of language skills. 'The design of the book reflects a high-quality national educational effort that aims to support teachers and achieve effective learning outcomes,' the ministry said. New learning methods have also been introduced across the board. The curriculum incorporates 21st-century skills such as critical analysis, self-learning and problem-solving. Social studies content — now introduced from Grade 1 — aims to strengthen national identity through newly developed books. Science and math subjects will adopt a problem-based learning model through the STEM approach. The curriculum also aims to be inclusive, with adaptations that account for individual learning differences and the needs of gifted students. The ministry emphasized that the entire redesign was developed locally by experienced Kuwaiti educators, supervisors and subject experts. 'The curriculum philosophy was built by national hands according to scientific standards to ensure that educational goals are met,' the statement concluded. — Agencies
Kuwait Times
17-06-2025
- General
- Kuwait Times
Education ministry restarts summer school clubs after COVID suspension
Program offered free of charge • Only public school students eligible for enrollment KUWAIT: The Ministry of Education, through its Department of Educational Development and Activities, announced on Monday the relaunch of summer school clubs, set to run from July 1 to August 31. The program, which has been on hold since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is restarting for the first time in five years. In a press statement, the ministry said the move comes 'in line with directives from Minister of Education Jalal Al-Tabtabaei, who is keen to provide educational, recreational, and enrichment opportunities that allow students to make the most of their summer break.' The initiative also aims to 'foster community participation, enhance students' skills, and support their development in a safe and stimulating environment.' The program is part of what the ministry described as a 'broader strategic vision' to make meaningful use of students' free time. The goal is to 'help refine their talents and develop their abilities within a supportive educational setting that promotes positive values and the concept of time well spent.' A total of 25 free summer clubs will operate across Kuwait's educational districts. The clubs will offer a wide range of activities, including sports such as football, handball, basketball, swimming, and bowling; cultural activities like debate clubs; and scientific and technical programs, including robotics. The program will also feature 'purposeful recreational activities that strike a balance between learning and fun.' Registration opens Monday and will be available electronically via the student's account on the Microsoft Teams platform through the ministry's website. Activities are scheduled for the evening hours, from 4 pm to 8 pm, allowing 'flexibility and accommodating diverse family schedules.' The ministry also announced the allocation of two specialized clubs for students with disabilities, saying the decision ensures 'an inclusive educational environment that caters to their needs and supports their development in an atmosphere of respect and empowerment.' The program targets male and female students in general education across elementary, intermediate, and secondary levels who are enrolled in Ministry of Education schools. According to the ministry, all activities 'will be supervised by specialized trainers across various fields,' with content 'tailored to meet a wide range of interests and needs.' It stressed that 'all activities are offered free of charge, reflecting the ministry's commitment to providing fair and equal educational opportunities for all.' The ministry concluded by saying that the summer clubs are 'an extension of the ministry's year-round educational role,' and that they aim to 'reinforce a culture of continuous learning and national belonging through activities that connect students with community values and institutions in a flexible educational environment that inspires creativity and unlocks their potential.' — KUNA
Kuwait Times
15-06-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Final exams, summer term set to continue as scheduled in Kuwait amid regional tensions
KUWAIT: Kuwait's education authorities have confirmed that schools and universities will continue operations as scheduled, with emergency plans activated to ensure the safety of students, educators, and administrative staff. The statements come amid rising regional tension after the Zionist entity launched an unprovoked aerial bombing campaign on Iran Friday, striking military and nuclear facilities and reportedly killing dozens, including senior commanders and civilians. Iran responded with overnight missile and drone attacks on the Zionist entity, deepening instability across the region. Kuwaiti Authorities have moved swiftly to reassure the public that despite the volatile regional environment, academic operations—including final exams and the start of the summer term—will proceed without disruption, under heightened readiness and safety measures. The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research said on Saturday it is monitoring developments 'closely and in continuous daily coordination with the relevant authorities.' The ministry emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of all students and staff across its affiliated institutions. 'Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Dr. Nader Al-Jalal has directed all affiliated entities to activate emergency plans and raise readiness levels at all levels,' the ministry said in a statement. 'It is crucial to maintain accurate and on-the-ground follow-up to ensure the safety of the academic community and the continuity of the educational process without interruption.' Emergency teams in universities and research institutions are said to be highly prepared and in direct coordination with civil defense and other national agencies to enable immediate response measures if needed. The ministry reassured students and parents that the summer academic term will begin as planned on Sunday, with all safety protocols in place. 'The summer semester will launch tomorrow as scheduled and in accordance with approved academic plans,' the ministry confirmed, adding that all educational institutions are on full alert to provide 'a safe and stable learning environment.' 90 shelter centers In a parallel effort, the Ministry of Education has announced the activation of field emergency plans and the readiness of 90 fully equipped shelter centers, currently under the supervision of civil defense teams. Minister of Education Jalal Al-Tabtabaei held a virtual meeting on Saturday with educational leadership to review school readiness and ongoing safety coordination. He emphasized the importance of strong inter-agency collaboration to maintain safety and educational continuity. 'Emergency response teams in educational regions and schools are at a high level of readiness to respond to any incident,' the ministry said. 'This ensures the safety of students during final exams and protects teaching and administrative staff, while allowing the educational process to continue smoothly.' The ministry also confirmed that Grade 12 second-term final exams are proceeding without changes to the schedule. 'The second-term exams for Grade 12 students are continuing according to the approved timetable, with no modifications,' the ministry said. 'Exam operations and control procedures are running smoothly under the direct supervision of the minister and educational leadership.' Both ministries concluded their statements by assuring students and families that daily coordination with authorities is ongoing, and that all necessary precautions are being taken to protect the stability of the educational system. 'We pray that Kuwait, its leadership, and its people remain safe and secure,' both ministries said in closing remarks. — Agencies
Kuwait Times
01-06-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Families in Kuwait disheartened by off-campus graduation ban
Last-minute decision to restrict ceremonies to school auditoriums shatters seniors' graduation dreams KUWAIT: Sara had a lot to look forward to in the final stretch of her senior year. Soon, she would walk the stage she had dreamed of since first grade, with her family and friends cheering for her. For many students like Sara, preparing for graduation goes beyond studying for those crucial finals — it's also about the celebration afterwards. The excitement of choosing an outfit and planning how to mark the occasion is just as important as the academic achievement. But a recent ministry of education decision banning schools from holding graduation ceremonies outside school grounds has shattered Sara's dream, and that of many of her peers. In late April, Education Minister Jalal Al-Tabtabaei issued a directive requiring all graduation ceremonies and school events to be held on campus, specifically in school auditoriums. The ministry has not publicly explained the reasoning behind the decision. The announcement came just weeks before the school year ends. 'The decision was very last minute and it had us all shocked,' said Sara, a Kuwaiti graduating senior. 'We've been waiting since we were young for this celebration so we could feel appreciated for all the work that we put into school. Now it won't be the same.' 'Auditoriums are rundown' Wearing a cap and gown to mark years of hard work is a meaningful milestone anywhere in the world. But in Kuwait, graduation has become more than a simple school ceremony. In recent years, it has evolved into a lavish celebration, often held in five-star hotel ballrooms or exclusive event halls. Some ceremonies feature extravagant setups — red carpets, indoor fireworks and massive stage displays — far beyond what most school auditoriums can accommodate. As soon as exams conclude and certificates are handed out, a race begins to book prestigious venues — spaces once reserved for weddings and major public events. These celebrations are now planned with budgets that rival those for Eid or even wedding seasons. Laura, an expat mother whose daughter is set to graduate next year, said the decision to ban off-campus ceremonies has taken away some of that joy. 'For the students, I would think, if you work so hard sitting in those walls all day long, you don't want to celebrate your graduation at the same place. You don't want it to feel like recess,' she said. While the decision calls for holding the event at school auditoriums, critics say it doesn't address the fact that the facilities are often poorly maintained. 'The problem is that school auditoriums are rundown — they need funding and time to be renovated. At our school, the last graduating class to hold their ceremony on campus was before the invasion,' said Abdullah, a high school student, referring to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait 34 years ago. The ban is especially disappointing for Mariam, Sara's mother, who had hoped to share her daughter's big day with extended family — including siblings and grandparents. When schools host events on campus, attendance is typically limited to just two guests, usually the parents. External venues, by contrast, can accommodate hundreds, allowing families to invite more loved ones — though that often comes at a steep cost. Some parents told Kuwait Times they've paid up to KD 50 per guest. Many schools also offer sit-down dinners and professional photography, turning the occasion into a full-scale celebration. 'Graduation parties held outside are better organized and just nicer overall,' said Amina, a parent. 'Money shouldn't be the issue when it comes to celebrating your kids — especially high school grads.' 'Why go that far?' Yet over the years, many parents and observers have criticized these lavish ceremonies. Costs can climb into the hundreds or even thousands of Kuwaiti dinars per student. Families often feel pressured to keep up, and students from less affluent households may end up feeling excluded. 'Of course it's a celebration of a lifetime but it's not right to strain your pocket for a party,' said Noura, a mother of three and a grandmother. 'It's a huge chunk of money that's better spent elsewhere, especially if a family has two or three kids.' Laura acknowledges the financial burden, but said she believes the recent ban leaves families with no real alternatives. 'I think there are more affordable ways to do it — it doesn't have to be at a five-star hotel,' she said. She added that expectations are tied to the school's demographic. 'It depends on the kind of school you go to,' Laura said. 'If the fees are, say, six or seven thousand dinars a year, then most families can afford a more elaborate celebration. But if you're at a school that charges KD 500 or 600 a year, the expectations shift — you work around what your parent community can afford.' Noura said the expenses go beyond the ticket price. 'The young girls who spend tons of money on getting their hair and makeup done at a salon, as if going to a wedding — why go that far?' she said. 'A nice dress under your gown and your cap is enough to make you beautiful like a rose.' Still, some parents are trying to stay hopeful. 'At the moment, I'm kind of hoping they change their minds,' said Laura. 'We still have one year left. But if not, then I'll probably just arrange something small — maybe a dinner at a nice restaurant with some of her friends, our own little celebration.' Note: Kuwait Times has changed the names of people in this article to protect their identity.
