The Saudi Ministry of Education announced updated and regulated mechanisms for disbursing the "Special Education Allowance," emphasizing its direct link to fieldwork with students with disabilities and the requirement of official assignment as a prerequisite for eligibility. This step comes as part of the Ministry's efforts to promote employment equity and ensure that financial support is directed to educational and administrative staff who are actively performing their duties in special education classrooms, schools, and centers.
General context and objectives of the new organization
These measures are part of a long-term development process in the education sector in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the field of special education. Historically, the Kingdom has given increasing attention to the inclusion and empowerment of students with disabilities, in line with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant and inclusive society that allows everyone to reach their full potential. The new regulations aim to establish the principle of "equal pay for equal work," where simply holding a job title or academic qualification is insufficient to qualify for the allowance. It must be accompanied by direct and continuous field experience that requires additional effort and a high level of specialization in dealing with this important group of students.
Details of the regulations and eligible categories
The ministry clarified that the allowance will be disbursed electronically through the “Faris” system, requiring the submission of an application supported by an official assignment from the authorized official. It emphasized that eligible categories include specialized teachers working in special education classes or resource rooms, as well as specialized educational supervisors whose duties include regular field visits to monitor programs. Department heads or non-specialized supervisors are only entitled to the allowance if they have a clear official assignment for field supervisory duties, and the disbursement is limited to the duration of the assignment only.
Conditions for disbursing the allowance to non-specialized teachers
In specific cases, the allowance may be paid to non-specialist teachers assigned to teach scientific or technical subjects that special education teachers cannot cover, such as mathematics, science, or computer science. This exception is subject to strict controls, including that the assignment be official and that it occurs after special education teachers have completed their full teaching load, thus ensuring that the quality of the basic educational service is not affected.
Allowance rates and their motivational importance
The allowance is 20% of the basic salary for a specialized or assigned teacher, as per regulations. This percentage increases to 30% for specialized behavioral training teachers, given the precise nature and increased effort required for their duties. This allowance is considered an important financial incentive that contributes to attracting and retaining specialized talent in this vital field, and reflects the Ministry's appreciation for the exceptional efforts made by those working in special education.
Expected impact on the education system
These regulations are expected to have a multifaceted positive impact. Locally, they will enhance the professionalism of the special education sector and ensure the more efficient allocation of financial resources, which will positively affect the quality of services provided to students with disabilities and their families. More broadly, this step aligns with global best practices in human resource management in education and underscores the Kingdom's commitment to developing a comprehensive and equitable education system capable of meeting the needs of all students without exception, further solidifying its position as a leading model in specialized care and education in the region.
