3.5mln students return to school in Saudi Arabia

More than 3.5 million students returned to school on Sunday in over 13,000 primary schools and 4,800 kindergartens across the Kingdom, almost two years after they closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The resumption of in-person teaching for the under-12s had been postponed from October last year.

Schools in Saudi Arabia closed classrooms and switched to online learning soon after the pandemic began in early 2020.

In preparation for the long-awaited return of students, senior school officials across the Kingdom have implemented a program to prepare pupils, parents and teachers for a safe resumption of classes.

The program focuses on reassuring students and parents about the return and face-to-face learning and reminding them of the importance of adhering to safety protocols while in school.

The resumption of classroom-based teaching has also prioritized giving parents a platform to ask questions and share concerns, and motivating students to study and participate in activities.

For the first few weeks after schools reopen, the program will focus on psychological efforts to help students get back into routine.

Schools will offer art activities, children’s theater, cultural and entertainment workshops and distribute gifts to reassure the returning students.

Schools will also provide 22 cultural, sports and awareness activities to give students plenty of opportunities to get physically active again after a hiatus of almost 2 years.

Online education facilities will remain available for children with serious health conditions that prevent them from returning to the classroom.