Education Minister Prince Khaled Al-Faisal has urged all schoolteachers to abide by the Kingdom’s new anti-terror laws and ensure they teach their students about correct Islamic practices and to remain loyal to their country.

His comments come in the wake of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, through the Interior Ministry, banning several extremist and terrorist organizations, and instituting jail terms of up to 20 years for citizens fighting in conflicts abroad.

“The ministry has warned people against joining, supporting or funding any groups that have been listed as terrorist organizations.”

The minister said that it was necessary to safeguard Islam, the unity of the Ummah, and the Kingdom’s security and stability.

Prince Khaled said divisions and disunity among Muslims across the Islamic world have weakened the Ummah. Various sectarian groups are fighting each other to realize their vested political and other interests.

He said the government remained committed to protecting education and the true values of Islam from these divisive forces.

“We have to enlighten our students about the dangers that surround them, teach them their religion properly, and encourage them to show allegiance toward their country and leadership,” the prince said.

Prince Khaled said the ministry would not allow educators to promote sectarian ideologies at schools, or have discussions on these banned viewpoints with fellow colleagues and students.

He said all education sector employees must follow the government’s instructions to the letter, and rely on knowledgeable Islamic scholars in the country.

“This is essential to protect the Kingdom’s unity and cohesion and prevent the emergence of sectarian groups in the Kingdom.” He also cautioned them to be aware of information on social media networks that contain lies about the Kingdom, its leaders and Islamic scholars.

He warned that the government would take tough action against those fighting in conflicts abroad.

Prince Khaled urged education directors across the country to hold urgent meetings with officials to implement the directives of the king and interior ministry.