KUWAIT CITY,The Ministry of Education on Wednesday launched its strategic plan for the 2025-2026 academic year, focusing on a range of key areas, including new school openings, school canteens, an updated academic calendar, and the "Baligh" program. The plan aims to align with Kuwait's Vision 2035 and meet the evolving needs of the education system.

In a presentation at the Government Communication Center, Acting Undersecretary Eng. Mohammad Al-Khaldi highlighted that the ministry is fully prepared for the new academic year, with 1,141 schools, including 950 public and 191 private institutions, set to serve 520,271 students. The total number of teaching and administrative staff has reached 131,969.

Al-Khaldi also announced the opening of 10 new schools, including seven in Al-Mutlaa, one in Ishbiliya, and two specialized schools for students with hearing impairments and those who have undergone cochlear implant surgery. The preparations included equipping the new schools with 15,000 items of student and administrative furniture, 900 computer lab devices, and a comprehensive range of technical infrastructure and educational tools, such as 100 interactive screens and 1,400 student buses.

A new five-year academic calendar was also introduced, aimed at improving student attendance, maximizing instructional days, and providing a holiday during the final week of Ramadan for both students and staff without reducing the total number of school days.

New staffing and AI integration in the curriculum

Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs Eng. Hamad Al-Hamad confirmed that 800 teachers and 183 administrators will be assigned to the newly opened schools. Additionally, 1,380 teachers will be transferred, and 687 school principals and assistant principals will be appointed. The Ministry also coordinated with the Ministry of Health to ensure that new schools have health clinic facilities.

Al-Hamad noted the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into the computer science curriculum for grades 10 and 11 to foster critical thinking and innovation skills. He also announced the launch of the "Ma’a Hamad Chat" AI tool, designed to serve students, teachers, and parents.

Focus on Student Health and Curriculum Updates

Maryam Al-Enezi, Acting Director of the General Administration of Support Services, emphasized the Ministry's commitment to student health. She revealed that the Kuwait Flour Mills Company will manage school cafeterias, and an educational coordinator will be appointed to assist teachers in classrooms across all schools.

Al-Enezi also highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to update educational materials, with 88 textbooks revised for all grade levels. The curriculum for intermediate-level computer science has been updated to include programming languages, and new content has been added to promote Kuwaiti values. Notably, the "Pauses with Good Kuwait" section has been introduced in the curriculum for grades 6-9 to enhance respect for local customs and traditions.

Additionally, the Ministry introduced a new national curriculum for grades 1-3, aimed at fostering a stronger sense of national identity. In a bid to lighten students' backpacks, textbooks have been divided into four sections for easier transport.

With these comprehensive initiatives, the Ministry of Education aims to enhance the educational experience for students and ensure that Kuwait's schools are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the coming academic years.