DOHA: The tough rules being implemented by the Supreme Education Council (SEC) to curb the menace of absenteeism in Independent schools seems to have a positive impact, with many schools reporting a relatively high attendance rate from the very first day of the new academic year.
Attendance on the first two days of the opening of schools ranged from 60 percent to 85 per cent, which the school officials say was higher compared to the past academic years. All Independent and private schools opened for the new academic year on Sunday.
A decision issued by the Minister of Education and Higher Education and SEC chairman H E Dr Mohammed bin Abdul Wahid bin Ali Al Hammadi last week barred Independent school students with low attendance from taking their continuous assessment tests and term examinations. The rule applies to students from grade 4 to grade 12.
Quoting school officials, a local Arabic daily reported yesterday that most schools have started implementing the decision from the first day of the academic year with a positive outcome.
Some schools had sent text messages to parents to get them acquainted with the new policy. Most schools used the first day of the school to explain to students the details of the ministerial decision and its seriousness.
“We had a 70 percent attendance on the first day which was better compared to the past four academic years,” Independent school operator was quoted as saying.
Another operator, who reported a similar attendance rate in his school, said the school had sent a written notice containing details of the new policy to all parents to be signed by them to make sure they were informed about the decision and agreed to comply with it.
“We had a very good attendance rate on the first day, about 80 percent. This was made possible through our direct contact with parents. We sent a letter to all parents before the opening of the school,” said the operator of a boys’ school.
Some elementary schools, however, reported a relatively low attendance level — between 50 and 60 percent.
“If we are not strict in implementing the decision from the very first day, then it would become difficult to implement it ever. Absenteeism is a major issue we have been facing, especially on the days before the vacation and immediately after the opening of the school,” said another official.
Several students also said that they are taking the decision seriously.
“Preventing from examination is a big punishment. However, we have to comply with it so as not to lose our career,” said a student.
The Peninsula
