Ministry Withdraws French Textbook, Continues English Distribution

The National Office for School Publications (الديوان الوطني للمطبوعات المدرسية) has withdrawn the French language textbook for the third year of primary school from its points of sale. This significant decision impacts the availability of educational materials for a key demographic of young learners. Concurrently, a new English textbook will be made available in sufficient quantities across 6,000 middle schools nationwide, marking a strategic shift in language education. Distribution of the English textbook initially focused on middle schools located in remote and desert areas, ensuring that students in these regions were among the first to receive the new learning resources.

French Textbook Removal

The National Office for School Publications (الديوان الوطني للمطبوعات المدرسية) announced the withdrawal of the French language textbook intended for the third year of primary school from all its sales outlets. This decision affects the availability of the textbook for purchase by students and educational institutions, effectively ceasing its distribution through official channels. The withdrawal signifies a move to re-evaluate or replace the curriculum for this specific grade level. Simultaneously, the Ministry of National Education has commenced the distribution of a new English language textbook, noting a national push towards English language proficiency. This new textbook is being provided in sufficient quantities to meet demand across 6,000 middle schools throughout the country, ensuring widespread access for students. Initial distribution efforts for the English textbook were specifically directed towards middle schools situated in remote and desert areas, prioritizing access for students in those regions who might otherwise face delays in receiving new materials. The full rollout aims to ensure all eligible schools receive the new materials promptly and efficiently.

English Textbook Rollout

The distribution of the new English textbook for the second year of middle school is scheduled for completion before the end of August, ahead of the new academic year. This ambitious timeline shows the Ministry's commitment to integrating English language instruction. As of the article's date, over 600,000 copies of this textbook have already been successfully distributed to schools across various regions. To meet the extensive national demand, the National Office for School Publications (الديوان الوطني للمطبوعات المدرسية) is actively engaged in printing between 1.2 million and 1.5 million copies of the English textbook. This substantial printing volume ensures that every student requiring the textbook will receive one. A specific quota of these textbooks is reserved in stock to address potential emergencies, such as natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, or fires, guaranteeing continuity of education even under unforeseen circumstances. This strategic reserve is key for maintaining educational stability.

Broader Ministry Plans

The Ministry of National Education is currently working diligently to finalize all school book-related tasks prior to the 2026/2027 academic year. This full initiative aims to streamline the availability of educational materials across the country well in advance, preventing any shortages or delays. The Ministry's proactive approach is designed to ensure a smooth start to future academic years. Additionally, new textbooks for Civil Education, intended for students in the third and fourth years of primary school, are slated for printing within one week. Printing will commence once these textbooks receive final approval from the relevant authorities, marking another step in the continuous update and enhancement of the national curriculum. This demonstrates a holistic effort to improve educational resources across multiple subjects and grade levels.