Schools across Riyadh have moved to remote learning for one week, with students and staff using the Madrasati platform instead of attending in person.
The last-minute decision was communicated to parents through schools’ approved communication channels. Several schools sent emails on Sunday informing families that in-person classes would not take place during the week.
The change affects students as well as teaching, educational and administrative staff. For families, the announcement means adjusting weekly routines and ensuring children are prepared for online lessons.
Riyadh Schools Shift To Remote Learning
Schools in Riyadh have been directed to suspend in-person teaching for one week and continue lessons remotely through Madrasati.
Parents received notices from individual schools, with some families given only limited notice before the change took effect. According to AFP, two separate messages sent to parents stated,
“We have just been informed by Saudi authorities that schools must remain closed all week,” read two separate messages seen by AFP.
The move covers students across schools in Riyadh, while teaching and administrative staff have also been instructed to work remotely.
What The Change Means For Parents And Students
For families, the shift to remote learning means students will need to follow their school’s online timetable and access lessons through the designated platforms.
Parents may also need to help younger children prepare for online classes, particularly where students require support with devices, internet access or joining lessons.
Meanwhile, older students may be able to manage more of their school day independently. However, families should continue checking school communications for updates to schedules, assignments and attendance arrangements.
Schools are also expected to maintain communication with families during the period of remote learning.
Why Have Riyadh Schools Moved Online?
No immediate official explanation for the week-long decision was provided in the reports available at the time of publication. AFP reported that the Saudi Ministry of Education had not publicly announced the move when the decision was communicated to parents.
The decision comes amid heightened regional security tensions. Reports have also described recent missile and drone activity involving Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis.
However, the reason for the school closure should not be stated as confirmed unless Saudi authorities formally provide one.
Madrasati Supports Learning Away From School
Saudi Arabia has previously used Madrasati to support education when students cannot attend school in person.
The Saudi Press Agency has reported previous decisions to move classes online through Madrasati for students and education staff, including during weather-related disruptions.
The platform therefore provides schools with an established way to continue teaching when normal attendance is disrupted.
For parents in Riyadh, the immediate priority is to follow their child’s school communications and ensure they know when and how to join their online lessons.
For more information regarding updates from the Ministry of Education, visit the website below:
Further Reading
- Saudi Arabia Opens School Performance Data to Parents in Landmark Move
- Saudi Arabia’s Human Capability Agenda and the African Opportunity Ahead