Kuwait embarks on sweeping curriculum reform from next scholastic year

In a bold and long-anticipated move marking a historic shift in Kuwait’s educational landscape, Minister of Education Dr. Sayyed Jalal Al-Tabtabaei has ordered the immediate development of new curricula for all subjects from kindergarten through ninth grade.

This decision, seen as official acknowledgment of the urgent need for transformative change, aligns with the government’s broader vision for educational reform and national development, reports Al-Jarida daily.

While implementation is set for the next academic year, the announcement signals a serious commitment to advancing the education system through meticulous planning, clear vision, and meaningful community partnerships.

During a recent meeting with general academic supervisors, Al-Tabtabaei emphasized that the new curricula must be grounded in scientific and educational principles, ensuring thematic coherence and subject integration — particularly among social studies, Islamic education, and Arabic language — to instill national values and reinforce Kuwaiti cultural identity.

The following are the key highlights of the reform:

• Full Curriculum Rewrite for KG – Class 9: All subjects will undergo revision based on scientific and pedagogical standards.
• Cultural and National Identity Focus: Emphasis on promoting Kuwaiti values through integrated teaching of social, religious, and linguistic subjects.
• Holistic Student Development: Inclusion of artistic and skill-based subjects—art, music, and physical education—through interactive and culturally relevant activities.
• National Educational Cadres Leading the Effort: Authoring teams will consist of experienced national professionals from within the education sector, including supervisors, principals, department heads, and qualified teachers.
• Coordinated Implementation: A structured timeline and follow-up mechanism will guide the development and rollout, with early drafts reviewed by external experts to ensure quality and alignment with national objectives.

Al-Tabtabaei underscored that this reform is a national duty and a shared responsibility among all stakeholders in the educational community.

He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to delivering a curriculum that produces a conscious, intellectually equipped generation—capable of leadership, creativity, and effective citizenship.

This initiative is in line with the directives of Kuwait’s political leadership and reflects the country’s aspiration to position education as a pillar of national progress and future readiness.