JEDDAH: Women employed in the private sector are finding it increasingly challenging to balance their work obligations and responsibilities toward their children during their examinations, especially for those who are in the final stages of their studies.

Mothers who work eight hours or more per day are especially struggling to find time to oversee their children’s studies, particularly if they manage their households and cannot afford additional help.

A number of women working in the private sector have called on the Ministry of Labor to reduce daily working hours during the end-of-year examination period in order to allow them more time to look after their children and help them with their studies.

Others say they have resorted to requesting annual leave in order to be by their children and support them during this stressful time.

Maryam Al-Suwad said nurses suffer tremendously during this time of year as they are often required to work up to 10 hours per day.

“Some private hospitals do not consider the needs of their employees during this period, and I was forced to request my annual leave during the exam period, in turn depriving me of enjoying the leave I deserve at another time.”

“Sometimes, my request is denied, and I am forced to miss days without pay in order to be there for my kids.”

Nabeela Hilal called on the Ministry of Labor to reduce working hours and facilitate leave entitlements, as well as establish nurseries for children and newborns at women’s work sites.

Maryam Al-Hameed, a government clinic employee, agreed, noting that long working hours prevent her from being able to monitor and help her children during their exams, especially as she often works from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is also responsible for taking care of household chores.

Social worker Kausar Ismail warned mothers about becoming a source of stress to their children by focusing excessively on exams, noting that this may be counterproductive to their success.

She advised mothers not to provide their children with caffeinated and stimulating beverages to keep them awake longer hours, as lack of sleep can cause major concentration problems in children and lead to failure. She also encouraged women to organize their time as much as possible and appeal to neighbors or relatives during this time for support.

Ismail also warned mothers about putting too much pressure on their children during their exams, and to provide an appropriate and calm environment with enough lighting and ventilation in order to reduce fatigue and help them study and focus.