Final decision on resuming distance education pending: Minister

The Saudi Ministry of Education completed the evaluation of the remote learning process by the end of the current fifth week, and is awaiting King Salman’s decision on whether to resume in-person learning or continue with the distance education program, Education Minister Hamad Al-Sheikh said.

Over the past five weeks, schools provided the primary technical support for Madrasati platform, students as well as parents, said Al-Sheikh.

Distance learning has become a strategic option going forward, and requires a change in culture among citizens so that they can benefit from online education learning regardless of events or crises, he added.

“This period is an opportunity for change, development and surviving challenges,” the minister said.

The ministry plans to conduct a number of examinations to map out reform plans for the online learning process.

The ministry also conducted surveys to assess the beneficiaries’ experiences with regard to Madrasati platform, and to understand challenges that students and parents might face during distance education and online learning.