Kuwait’s Ministry of Education has issued new directives to more strictly regulate school operations and staff conduct. Prior written permission from the relevant authorities is now mandatory for holding events, celebrations, or photography sessions on school premises, as well as for inviting outside individuals or organizations.
Collecting money from teachers, staff, students, or parents, or accepting cash or material gifts and donations, has been banned. Students and staff are also prohibited from selling, advertising, or promoting goods or services for personal financial gain.
Strict controls have also been placed on food distribution at school events. Food and beverages from unapproved sources must not be brought into schools, distributed, or sold. School authorities are required to inspect canteens daily to ensure health and food safety standards are met and to record any lapses.
The ministry has issued special directives to protect student privacy as well: photographing or video recording students, or publishing their images or personal information, is prohibited without prior written consent. Circulating such images or information through private social media accounts or groups is also banned.
The directive further states that school records, confidential information, and personal data related to students, parents, and staff must not be disclosed or misused. Staff are also not permitted to publish statements or news in the name of the ministry or the school without official authorization. Restrictions have additionally been placed on teachers using mobile phones or other smart devices during class time for purposes unrelated to education.
Any violations, including organizing events without permission, will be immediately referred to the legal affairs department for investigation, and disciplinary action will follow. The Ministry of Education made clear there will be zero tolerance for violations. The ministry has instructed school authorities to inform all staff of the new directives and to keep records confirming that staff have read and understood them.
