KUWAIT CITY, Sept 1: Compulsory education in Kuwait has been a cornerstone in building society and investing in the country’s human resources since the implementation of Law No. 11 of 1965, which mandated free education for students from elementary school to the end of secondary school.

Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) spoke with educational officials and experts who highlighted the law’s significance and benefits.

Dr. Yaqoub Al-Ghunaim, former Minister of Education in 1981 and retired Arabic language teacher at Shuwaikh High School, said compulsory education forms the foundation of thriving societies. “History has shown that no true advancement is achieved without proper knowledge and education. Countries that neglected education suffered greatly,” he said. He added that education not only teaches subjects but also instills morals and ethics, contributing to societal development.

Seham Al-Foraih, member of the Board of Trustees at the Kuwait International Law School (KILAW) and Chairperson of the Kuwaiti National Society for the Protection of Children, said human development begins by strengthening education. She cited Singapore as an example of rapid progress achieved through prioritizing education. Al-Foraih called for continuous updates to educational materials and curricula and urged the elimination of rote learning, advocating for creative teaching methods to engage students.

Dr. Waleed Al-Enezi, faculty member at Kuwait University’s College of Education, said the compulsory education law has significantly reduced illiteracy and provided opportunities for all to access knowledge. He stressed that social development relies on educating the masses, which in turn strengthens the economy. Al-Enezi noted that violations of the law carry legal consequences, including fines. He also added that curricula foster awareness of Kuwaiti history, culture, and moral values, reinforcing national identity.

Dr. Najah Al-Thaidi, faculty member at Kuwait University’s College of Arts and Literature, described compulsory education as a strategic state plan, not merely a legal obligation. She said the law ensures societal prosperity by providing access to education for all, enabling future generations to contribute meaningfully to national development. She highlighted the importance of keeping curricula updated to reflect global educational advances.

Dr. Al-Thaidi credited the late Sheikh Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the first Minister of Education, with establishing formal, compulsory education in Kuwait, opening schools for boys and girls since the 1940s, and laying the foundation for modern education in the country.

As the 2025-2026 academic year approaches, authorities are preparing programs to create an integrated educational environment that motivates students and encourages academic commitment and excellence. The state continues to emphasize compulsory education at basic stages while expanding initiatives to improve the quality of education, teachers, and students, recognizing it as a foundation for building modern societies.