The Kingdom has a well-developed education system, but needs further changes to keep pace with modern trends, an educationist said here recently.

In an interview with Arab News, Padma Hariharan, director and head of the Novel International Group of Institutions, said the changes include the use of English as a business language alongside Arabic.

The literacy rate in Saudi Arabia in 1970 was 15 percent for males and 2 percent for females. However, by 2002 it was estimated at 84.2 percent for males and 69.5 percent for females, Hariharan said.

The Education Ministry supervises all private schools in the country and teaches the same curriculum, using the same books as those used in the public sector. She said foreign organizations are now allowed to educate Saudi students, which is a change from the past.

Hariharan said strong schools need good teachers, books, resources, technology, clear policy on language use, and the contribution of parents.

“A school cannot function if it does not have the support of teachers. Teachers have to be stable, well read, trained, motivated, counseled and properly groomed,” she said.

Hariharan said English should be treated as a business language, with all policies written in Arabic and English. Officials should be able to speak English and Arabic so they can “work hand in hand,” with their expatriate colleagues, she said.

She said well-developed policies should be drafted keeping in mind the varied schools and curricula in Saudi Arabia, which includes British, American, Indian, Sri Lankan, Pakistani, Philippine, Egyptian and Saudi institutions.

“A wonderful policy could be crafted if a core committee is formed and brainstorming sessions are held with the final blessings of the education ministry,” she said.

“For the retention of teachers, it would be good if work permits are issued to schools, so they can focus on training, recruiting teachers and ensuring quality is delivered at all times,” she said.

Any changes must be introduced in English and Arabic to Saudi officers and academic heads. Policies on administration and curricula should be standardized for both girls and boys sections, so that the focus remains on providing proper infrastructure and teaching.

She said a difficulty has been created with Saudis who do not speak English staffing front office and parent liaison positions. This could be solved if two expatriates are appointed as support staff.

Hariharan said parents must also show more interest in the schooling of their children. They should also ensure that they have respect for teachers and not break school rules.

In addition, parents must be allowed to attend parent-teacher meetings whether it is a girl or boys school.