MoE dismisses rumours, affirms no change in school timetable

MUSCAT: The Ministry of Education (MoE) has confirmed that the approved school day schedule for the 2025-2026 academic year will remain unchanged, dismissing social media rumours suggesting a possible reduction in school hours during the remaining weeks of the academic year.
In a clarification issued through its official social media platforms, the ministry stressed that the current school timetable continues to be in effect in accordance with Ministerial Decision No 103/2025 on the academic calendar for schools.
The ministry underlined the importance of full adherence to the approved school day duration to ensure the smooth continuation of the educational process and the achievement of its academic objectives.
The statement comes amid growing discussions on social media calling for shorter school hours as temperatures rise and the academic year approaches its final weeks. The ministry said its clarification aims to end speculation and reaffirm continuity of the approved schedule.
According to the MoE, maintaining designated school hours is a key pillar in ensuring the stability and effectiveness of the education system.
It said the academic timetable had been designed in line with educational standards, taking into account curriculum distribution, assessment periods and school activities, while balancing academic and developmental goals.
The ministry also noted that any reduction in school hours could negatively affect curriculum completion and disrupt educational plans linked to the academic calendar. It reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the well-being of students, teachers and administrative staff across schools in the Sultanate of Oman.
The ministry called on parents, students, and education staff to support regular attendance and school discipline, stressing that consistency contributes significantly to improved academic performance and a stable learning environment.
Abdullah bin Hamad al Belushi, principal of a government school in Muscat Governorate, said attendance during this phase of the academic year is particularly important as final examinations approach and curriculum plans near completion.
“The final weeks of the academic year are not a marginal period. They are among the most important stages, during which final lessons, revision programmes, and assessments are completed, along with monitoring students’ academic and behavioural progress,” he told Observer.
He added that school administrations are working continuously to provide a suitable learning environment and ensure student comfort and safety, supporting the smooth continuation of the educational process.
Al Belushi stressed that cooperation between schools and families remains essential in encouraging consistent attendance.
Meanwhile, teacher Khalid bin Saif al Alawi said regular attendance at this stage has a direct impact on academic performance, noting that current lessons focus on revision and exam preparation.
“Reducing school hours could affect the implementation of educational plans, particularly in subjects that require continuous explanation and revision. Maintaining the approved schedule ensures students receive the intended learning outcomes,” he said.
He added that schools are actively working to keep students engaged through interactive teaching methods and varied learning activities, stressing the need for focus and discipline during the final phase of the academic year.
Educational specialists said the ministry’s decision reflects its commitment to maintaining stability in the education system and preventing disruption caused by misinformation on digital platforms, particularly during exam periods.
They added that regular attendance in the final weeks helps improve academic performance, reduce learning gaps, and reinforce discipline and responsibility among students.
The MoE concluded by urging the public to rely on official sources for information and avoid spreading rumours, while reaffirming the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure the success of the academic process.