In a strategic move aimed at enhancing educational outcomes and bridging the gap in academic performance, the General Directorate of Education in Jeddah, represented by the Education Performance Department, announced the launch of the third edition of the "Coming Soon" and "Ready" competitions during the second semester. These initiatives are part of a package of development programs that seek to raise the quality of learning outcomes and prepare students to meet the challenges of national and international assessments, in line with the ambitious goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
General context and importance of standardized tests
Achievement and aptitude tests are of paramount importance in the Saudi education system, serving as a key indicator of educational quality and a fundamental criterion for admission to universities and competitive programs. The Education and Training Evaluation Commission, represented by the National Center for Assessment (Qiyas), oversees the implementation of these tests, which measure students' comprehension of scientific concepts in general education (achievement tests) and their analytical and reasoning abilities (aptitude tests). Internationally, the Kingdom strives to improve its ranking in global assessments such as the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) and the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), making initiatives like "Qadimon" (Coming) and "Muta'hiboun" (Ready) cornerstones in achieving this progress.
Details of the initiatives and their objectives
"Coming 3" competition targets elementary and middle school students, focusing on core subjects including mathematics, natural sciences, and Arabic language. The competition aims to build a solid knowledge base for students at an early age, develop their reading and scientific thinking skills, deepen their understanding of fundamental concepts, and improve teachers' professional practices, which will positively impact student performance in future assessments.
"Ready 3" competition is aimed at male and female high school seniors in both the science and humanities tracks in public and private schools. The competition supports systematic and early preparation for the aptitude and achievement tests, increases the percentage of students achieving high scores, and fosters a culture of positive competition. Through this initiative, the program contributes to increasing students' chances of admission to prestigious universities and reducing the phenomenon of academic underachievement.
Expected impact and strategic dimension
The importance of these two competitions extends beyond their role as motivational tools; they represent a comprehensive strategy that begins at the school level and escalates to the educational administration level, employing specific evaluation mechanisms based on data analysis and past test results. Locally, these initiatives are expected to raise the overall performance level of Jeddah schools and create a more competitive learning environment. Nationally, the success of such programs offers a model that can be replicated in other regions and directly contributes to achieving the objectives of the Human Capability Development Program, a key component of Vision 2030, which aims to cultivate globally competitive citizens. Investing in equipping students to pass standardized tests effectively is an investment in the nation's future, building a generation that is both aware and scientifically and intellectually qualified to lead the path of sustainable development.
