Government agencies planning activities with schools are asked obtain the ministry's approval before the start of the academic year.
Ministry of Education has issued a directive requiring government agencies to seek prior approval for any activities involving school children.
In a circular signed by State Minister Ahmed Mohamed and distributed to all government agencies, city and local councils, clubs and associations, on Sunday, the ministry said that such activities must align with the schools' academic calendar.
According to the circular, activities involving students must be incorporated into the school activity calendar to ensure they do not disrupt learning. Government agencies planning activities with schools are asked obtain the ministry's approval before the start of the academic year.
“Schools should only be contacted regarding such activities after obtaining permission from the Ministry,” the circular stated.
The ministry highlighted that some agencies have been organizing activities and competitions involving schools without consulting the ministry or aligning them with the schools' activity calendars. This may adversely affects students' learning, teachers’ schedules, and children’s mental and physical well-being, the circular said.
The circular also noted that unplanned activities disrupt schools’ pre-scheduled events and impose financial burdens on schools and parents. The ministry has urged all agencies to coordinate with them in advance to minimize such disruptions.