New public education sector strategies will radically alter the current Saudi education model bringing it in line with the highest international standards, according to a source at King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz Public Education Development Project (Tatweer). A pilot scheme of the “New School Project”, has already been applied since the beginning of the new academic year, Dr. Ali Al-Hakami, Tatweer project director said. “The project has been applied in seven education administrations all over the Kingdom and 200 schools run by them,” Dr. Al-Hakami was quoted by Asharq Al-Awsat Arabic daily as saying. One of Tatweer's education goals is to create the world's largest center for students with special needs. This will focus on evaluating and helping students facing learning difficulties, Dr. Al-Hakami said. The Kingdom has long believed in the necessity of investing in education. Tatweer aims to upgrade Saudi education standards which will then help with the Saudization goal, and with reducing economic dependence on oil. It seeks to develop a system of education standards, assessment, and accountability fit for the 21st century. Its main goals are developing curriculum and learning materials to meet current and future skill needs. It also aims to promote learning and provide professional development for leaders, managers and all school staff.
