Kuwait reopens student summer clubs after five-year hiatus

In a move that underscores the Ministry of Education’s commitment to holistic student development, Minister of Education Eng. Jalal Al-Tabtabaei has officially relaunched student summer clubs across all educational districts in Kuwait.

This initiative marks the first return of these programs since they were suspended over five years ago due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sources told Al-Rai that since the initiative’s announcement last month, Minister Al-Tabtabaei has instructed the Educational Development and Activities Sector to swiftly implement the reopening of summer evening clubs.

The decision reflects the minister’s belief in the importance of extracurricular activities in fostering students’ personal growth, helping them use their free time positively, and steering them away from social isolation and harmful behaviors.

The Educational Activities Sector has developed a comprehensive plan for the summer clubs, proposing a wide array of activities designed to appeal to diverse student interests. These include swimming, bowling, football, handball, basketball, debate, and robotics.

The initiative also includes clubs specifically designed for students with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity across all educational levels.

In coordination with local education districts, the ministry has designated 24 locations for these clubs, evenly distributed between boys’ and girls’ facilities. Activities are scheduled to begin in early July and will run for two months.

At the end of the summer period, the Ministry will evaluate the success of the program to determine whether it should be extended throughout the academic year or remain exclusive to summer sessions. This trial phase will help shape the future of extracurricular education in Kuwait.

To support the initiative, the Ministry has secured approval from the Civil Service Bureau to allocate financial bonuses ranging from 150 to 300 Kuwaiti dinars for around 350 employees participating in the evening clubs. These bonuses aim to incentivize staff engagement and ensure a high-quality experience for all participating students.

The reopening of summer clubs represents a significant step toward revitalizing student engagement and providing safe, enriching environments that nurture creativity, collaboration, and physical activity.