In a move reflecting administrative decisiveness and digital transformation in the management of the education system, the Saudi Ministry of Education implemented a strict electronic procedure this morning, Sunday, through the central "Noor" system, coinciding with the start of the first semester final exams. This procedure automatically closed the exam halls to students whose absences exceeded 18 days without an acceptable official excuse, thus preventing them from taking the written exams for this semester.
This decision comes in conjunction with the return of approximately six million male and female students to their classrooms in various regions of the Kingdom, in a clear message confirming the Ministry’s seriousness in implementing the school discipline regulations, and its diligent efforts to reduce the phenomenon of unjustified absence that negatively affects academic achievement and the efficiency of the educational process.
The context of school discipline and digital transformation
This measure is not an isolated event, but rather part of a strategic approach adopted by the Ministry of Education to reinforce the value of discipline in the school environment. Activating automatic suspension through the "Noor" system represents a qualitative leap in monitoring mechanisms, transforming the system from a mere platform for recording grades into a regulatory and supervisory tool that ensures fairness and equality among students. These measures aim to raise the level of responsibility among both students and parents, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to improve educational outcomes and enhance school performance.
Weather challenges and time flexibility
On another front, the cold waves affecting some regions of the Kingdom have created an exceptional situation requiring flexible administrative intervention. Exam schedules have been adjusted in six educational districts, with education departments in Riyadh and the Eastern Province directing that exams begin at 9:00 AM. Meanwhile, regions most affected by the low temperatures, such as Tabuk, Hail, and the Northern Borders, have had to delay the start time until 10:00 AM, prioritizing the safety of students and providing a comfortable environment conducive to concentration.
A race against time to announce the results
On the ground, examination halls in boys' and girls' schools witnessed a steady stream of students from the third grade of elementary school to the third grade of high school, amidst intensive organizational preparations. Immediately after the exams concluded, teaching staff began the process of marking and meticulous review, with the immediate entry of grades into the "Noor" system. Schools are working against the clock to ensure the announcement of final results for all grade levels by the end of the school day next Thursday, in preparation for the start of the nine-day mid-year break. This will give students and their families a chance to relax and recharge before the resumption of classes.
