In a significant development, the Ministry of Education has announced an update to the school hours on Fridays for public schools, aligning the changes with the newly established Friday prayer schedule. The new school timings will take effect starting Friday, January 9th, ensuring that students can smoothly transition between educational commitments and their religious obligations.
The Ministry clarified that the approved school hours for kindergarten students will begin at 8:00 AM and conclude at 11:30 AM. For primary school students, attendance will occur under two possible time slots: either from 7:10 AM to 10:30 AM or from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM, depending on their designated class.
For students in the second and third cycles, the school hours will vary according to gender. Boys will have their classes from 7:10 AM to 10:30 AM, while girls will attend from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This adjustment reflects the Ministry’s commitment to accommodate the needs of all students while maintaining a rigorous educational schedule.
The Ministry also urged private schools to adhere to the new timing, ensuring that no classes extend beyond 11:30 AM on Fridays. This measure is intended to help students fulfill their religious duties within the appropriate timeframe while also sustaining the educational process according to approved curriculums.
Highlighting the rationale behind this initiative, the Ministry emphasized its dedication to fostering a flexible learning environment that respects the significance of Friday as a day of worship. This decision aims not only to facilitate students’ religious practices but also to strengthen family bonds. The Ministry noted that religious values are a foundational element of national identity and play a crucial role in shaping a well-rounded and aware student.
Furthermore, Friday will continue to be regarded as a foundational school day, with existing attendance policies remaining in place. The adjustment in hours is designed to ensure that the educational experience remains uninterrupted, treating this day with the respect it deserves while allowing for early dismissal, thereby balancing academic responsibilities and religious customs effectively.