The Ministry of Education announced that the new academic calendar for the year 1445 (2023-24) includes three semesters and 38 academic weeks, as well as 180 school days, 60 days of various vacations, and 68 days of full summer vacation. This is applicable to all the phases of public and university education institutions as well as technical and vocational training institutions.
The ministry said in a statement that the first semester of the academic year will begin on Sunday, Safar 4, 1445, corresponding to Aug. 20, 2023, and ends with the end of the working hours on Thursday, Jamad Al-Awwal 2, 1445, corresponding to Nov. 16, 2023.
The second semester will begin, on Sunday, Jamad Al-Awwal 12, 1445, corresponding to Nov. 26, 2023 and ends with the end of working hours on Thursday, Shaban 12, 1445 corresponding to Feb. 22, 2024. The third semester will start on Sunday, Shaban 22, 1445, corresponding to March 3, 2024, and ends with the end of working hours on Monday Dhul Hijjah 4, 1445 corresponding to June 10, 2024.
The date for the return of educational supervisors and employees of educational offices, schools and institutes at all educational levels and kindergartens is on Sunday, Muharram 26, 1445, corresponding to Aug. 13, 2023. The second round exams will also start on that day.
The new academic calendar includes 10 different types of holidays, including four long vacations, vacation during the end of the first and second semesters, the mid-semester vacation, in addition to the National Day, and Foundation Day holidays, as well as the Eid Al-Fitr holidays.
The academic calendar for the year 1445 gives public and private universities, and the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC), Saudi schools abroad and the community schools the flexibility to make changes in the calendar dates in accordance with the specific regulations in this respect.
The start of the study for the academic year 1446/1447 was set on Sunday, Safar, 14, 1446 AH corresponding to Aug. 18, 2024, the ministry said in the statement.
The Ministry said the academic calendar for the year 1445 (corresponding to 2023-2024) will include:
- 3 semesters
- 38 academic weeks
- 180 school days
- 60 days of various vacations
- 68 days summer holiday
The Ministry of Education said semesters will be:
- Semester one: Sunday, August 20, 2023 until Thursday, November 16, 2023.
- Semester two: Sunday, November 26, 2023 until Thursday February 22, 2024.
- Semester three: Sunday, March 3, 2024 until Monday, June 10, 2024.
Benefits of School Holidays
School holidays play a vital role in the education system, benefiting students, parents, and educators alike. Let us explore the various advantages these breaks offer:
1. Academic Refreshment and Consolidation
School holidays provide students with a chance to recharge their minds and bodies. These breaks allow them to step away from the classroom environment temporarily, reducing academic stress and preventing burnout. By taking time off, students can return to their studies with renewed focus, motivation, and enthusiasm.
2. Family Bonding and Quality Time
The school holidays in Saudi Arabia emphasize the importance of family. Students have the opportunity to spend quality time with their parents, siblings, and extended family members. Engaging in activities together fosters stronger bonds and creates lasting memories, promoting a supportive and nurturing family environment.
3. Cultural Enrichment and Exploration
Saudi Arabia is a nation rich in culture, history, and traditions. School holidays offer students a chance to explore their heritage by visiting historical sites, museums, and participating in cultural events. This exposure broadens their understanding of their country’s roots and fosters a sense of pride in their cultural identity.
4. Personal Development and Skill Building
During school holidays, students can engage in personal projects, pursue hobbies, or even undertake part-time jobs. These experiences enable them to develop essential life skills such as time management, responsibility, and independence. Such skills are invaluable not only during their academic journey but also in their future careers.
5. Rest and Well-being
School holidays provide students with a much-needed break from the demands of their academic responsibilities. This downtime allows them to relax, engage in leisure activities, and focus on their physical and mental well-being. By prioritizing self-care, students return to school feeling refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges.
