As educational institutions gear up for the new academic year, the Ministry of Education has implemented comprehensive guidelines aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of students and staff across schools. With administrative and teaching staff set to return to their schools on Monday, 24 August 2026, students will follow suit a week later, commencing their studies on 31 August 2026.
Robust Safety Measures for Schools
The Ministry’s newly established regulations focus on several key areas, including structural safety, transportation standards, and health protocols within school environments. According to a copy of the General School Monitoring Guide obtained by “Al Khaleej,” the Ministry emphasises the necessity of maintaining buildings free from defects, ensuring all corridors and stairwells are safe and accessible, and installing both internal and external surveillance cameras while respecting student privacy.
Furthermore, specific requirements have been outlined for school buses, mandating schools adhere to current transportation laws. Drivers and bus supervisors are required to hold the appropriate certifications, and daily monitoring measures for students using these services must be clearly established. This initiative aims to ensure students’ health and safety throughout their time at school, including the provision of adequate first aid kits.
Commitment to Hygiene and Food Safety
The guidelines also encompass safety standards for school cafeterias, where only approved food items may be sold. Cafeterias must be equipped with appropriate facilities to display and maintain food at the required temperatures. Measures must be put in place to manage student traffic effectively during meal times to prevent overcrowding, alongside strict protocols for food handling and hygiene. Additionally, all cafeteria staff must be licensed and trained in food safety practices, aligning with approved regulations.
General Facilities and Environment
In terms of general school facilities, the guidelines state that schools must adhere to the approved architectural blueprints provided by the Ministry and cannot repurpose buildings for non-educational activities without prior consent. Clear signage must be displayed throughout the premises to guide visitors, and rigorous cleaning protocols must be maintained across all school facilities.
Preparing for the New Academic Year
The upcoming week of preparations for teaching and administrative staff will be filled with various workshops and meetings designed to finalise plans for the school year ahead. This includes essential training sessions for teachers to familiarise them with the annual agenda, academic calendars, and special events. Hatem Darwish, a manager at a private school, stated that the first week’s development plan includes several training workshops focused on enhancing educational practices.
Mohammed Nazif, an educational consultant, noted that the initial focus for both teachers and administrators will be their readiness to welcome students, particularly new enrolees who may need additional support in adjusting to their new environment.
Support for Students with Special Needs
The Ministry has also introduced specific measures aimed at supporting students with special educational needs. Schools are required to create qualified environments and programmes that facilitate the admission of students with disabilities, complying with established regulations set by the Ministry. Moreover, schools must maintain dedicated files for each student with special needs and employ qualified teachers to ensure these students receive the necessary support.
As the launch of the new academic year approaches, the Ministry’s proactive approach to securing the safety and well-being of both students and staff is evident, paving the way for a productive and supportive educational environment.