Education Minister Prince Khaled Al-Faisal has ordered all regional departments to provide detailed reports on the discipline of teachers and students at schools across the country.

He warned that the ministry would not tolerate ill-discipline because the country’s development depended on the good education of its citizens.

In a circular sent to schools recently, the minister said the strength of the school system depends on the support of principals, teachers and students. They are “all required to uphold discipline,” he said. He said the ministry has developed regulations that require students to be present at schools on the days before and after holidays and examinations.

Al-Faisal ordered all education departments to provide the ministry with detailed reports on this and other disciplinary issues at schools.

The ministry also outlined six penalties for teachers who do not turn up for work, especially during weeks preceding exams or following official holidays.

This includes dismissal, banning them from practicing the teaching profession no promotions to leadership positions, payment deductions, cancelling transfer applications and disciplinary transfers.

The plan will be implemented at the start of the second school semester on Monday.

Sources said the ministry has ordered directors, assistants, heads of departments and supervisors to conduct inspections during the first three days of the second semester to make sure everyone is committed to the school schedule.

The prince thanked those who support the education sector, and said its development depends on the close cooperation between the ministry and the community.