Kuwait: Last Week of Ramadan to be a Holiday for Students and Staff

Kuwait’s Ministry of Education has unveiled a historic shift in the country's academic approach by introducing a five-year comprehensive academic calendar. At the heart of this reform is a new provision: the last week of Ramadan will now be designated as a holiday for students, as well as teaching and administrative staff.

This move is aimed at fostering long-term educational stability and optimising resource allocation.

Balancing Rest and Productivity

Education Minister Jalal Al Tabtabaei described the new calendar as a strategic framework that spans all education sectors—including general, religious, special, adult, and early childhood education. It provides fixed dates for school terms, exams, holidays, student registration, staff transfers, and supervisory appointments.

The introduction of a Ramadan holiday is designed to offer students and staff much-needed rest during a spiritually significant period—without disrupting the overall academic timetable.

Tackling Absenteeism and Resource Waste

Unofficial breaks around Ramadan have historically led to widespread absenteeism, costing valuable instructional time and straining operational resources such as electricity, water, and transport. The new calendar addresses these issues head-on. According to ministry studies, the structured implementation could save nearly KD 51 million annually—funds that can now be channeled into student-centred learning and enrichment programs.

Promoting Discipline and National Responsibility

Minister Al Tabtabaei emphasized that maintaining regular school attendance is more than a procedural requirement—it is a shared national duty. The new academic calendar is expected to instil discipline and commitment among students, parents, and school administrators, ensuring every school day supports holistic educational development.

Looking Ahead

This reform marks a pivotal moment for Kuwait’s education system, as it transitions to long-term, stable planning. By reconciling academic continuity with cultural observance, the Ministry hopes to set a durable foundation for enhancing educational outcomes across the nation