What do know about corporal punishment against students in Oman?

Muscat: The new School Education Law, promulgated by the Royal Decree 31/2023, clearly specifies the obligations of the teachers and the administrative staff towards the welfare of the students.

The school administration must notify the student’s guardian of the student’s irregularity in accordance with the procedures in the regulations.

Article (91) states that the members of the educational staff shall notify the school principal, or his representative of any crime committed within the scope of the school, who shall report to the nearest police station, in writing, within 24 hours of his knowledge of the occurrence of the incident.

In the event of a violation of the provisions of this article, the violator shall be punished by imprisonment for a period of no less than 24 hours and not exceeding 10 days, and with a fine of no less than RO200 and not exceeding RO 1,000 or one of these two penalties.

Article (58) states that the members of the teaching staff must apply the best educational practices and principles, and provide an environment stimulating active learning, to achieve educational standards and quality of learning.

Article (59) states that members of the teaching staff are prohibited from applying corporal punishment against students violating discipline.

Article (27) states that the student continues in the basic education stage until he passes it or completes 17 years of age.

An exception is made for those who have a special health condition based on a report issued by a medical authority.

Those who have reached the age of 17 may enroll in adult education to continue their education.

Article (28) states that a student who excels in academics may be promoted to a higher grade, or more, during the basic education stage in accordance with the controls set out in the regulations.

Article (43) states that students have the right to receive a high-quality education that meets international standards.

Article (44) states that students have equal rights to receive educational services, and it is not permissible to discriminate between them on grounds of race, origin, color, language, religion, sect, place of birth, social status, or any other reason.