Important announcement from the Ministry of Education regarding the new promotion mechanism
The Saudi Ministry of Education announced details of the promotion mechanism for those holding educational positions, confirming that it will be automatic for all those who meet the established criteria and conditions. This clarification aims to address circulating inquiries, as the process does not require prior approval or the submission of an application for nomination. Rather, it is conducted in accordance with the new regulations for educational positions and the executive regulations for human resources in the civil service.
Historical context: A step towards achieving Vision 2030
These updates are part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's efforts to develop the education sector, a cornerstone of achieving the goals of Vision 2030 and the Human Capital Development Program. In 2020, the new regulations for teaching positions were approved, marking a significant shift in the career paths of teachers. These regulations now link promotions to competence, continuous professional development, and obtaining a professional license, rather than relying solely on seniority as was previously the case. The aim of these regulations is to create a stimulating work environment, enhance the efficiency of educational staff, and ensure the quality of educational outcomes in line with international standards.
The importance of the decision and its expected impact
This decision is of paramount importance on several levels. Locally, it is expected to boost teacher morale and motivation by providing a clear and equitable merit-based career path. It also enhances transparency and reduces bureaucratic procedures, allowing teachers to focus on their core responsibilities of teaching and professional development. Nationally, improving the quality of education for teachers will directly impact the quality of education provided to students, contributing to the development of a globally competitive generation capable of contributing to the knowledge-based economy that the Kingdom aspires to build.
Upgrade details and regulations
The ministry clarified that teacher promotions are sequential, progressing from the current rank to the next higher rank within the same job number; skipping ranks is not permitted. The promotion process is subject to a set of precise conditions that vary depending on the targeted rank
Conditions for promotion from the rank of “Teacher” to “Practicing Teacher”:
- Spending a period of no less than six years in the rank of “teacher”.
- Obtain the necessary professional license.
- The need for his specialization is met at the rank of practicing teacher.
- Achieve the minimum required professional development points.
Requirements for promotion to the rank of “Advanced Teacher” or “Expert Teacher”:
- To have at least a university degree.
- Spending a specified period of service that depends on the academic qualification (6 years for a Bachelor’s degree, 5 for a Master’s degree, 4 for a PhD).
- Obtaining the appropriate professional license for the rank.
- The job performance evaluation for the last three years must not be less than a “very good” rating.
- Achieve the required professional development points.
Selection and transparency mechanism
To ensure fairness when the number of candidates exceeds the available vacancies, selection is based on a specific points system that includes the professional license score (general and specialized) and the average job performance evaluation. In case of a tie, additional criteria such as seniority and year of graduation are considered. The Ministry emphasized that the promotion decision is not retroactive, in accordance with Article (58) of the Executive Regulations for Human Resources.
Accessing decisions and following up on procedures
To facilitate the process for teachers, the Ministry clarified that a copy of the promotion decision can be viewed through the self-service portal in the "Faris" system via the "My Decisions" service. Those eligible for promotion will also be notified of the results via text messages and system notifications, with the Ministry emphasizing that official announcements will be made through its approved channels.
