The new academic year 2026–2027 began yesterday after a comprehensive preparation, with schools welcoming 419,373 students across all educational stages. All the necessary academic, administrative and operational preparations were made to ensure an organised and effective start to the new academic year and provide students with a safe, healthy and stimulating learning environment.
The Ministry of Education and Higher Education has opened six new government schools, covering different educational stages, providing 3,600 additional seats across several areas of Qatar as part of efforts to increase capacity and meet growing demand for education.
Professional development has been a major component of preparations for the new academic year. The annual educational meeting featured more than 15 training workshops covering educational practices, teaching methods and performance development. The event also recognised the participants of the Qiyadat, Tamheen and Successful Start programmes.
The Ministry’s Training and Development Centre will continue implementing approved training programmes for various educational cadres throughout the academic year to ensure continuous professional development and equip staff to meet the evolving needs of the education sector.
In private education sector, 156 nurseries are currently operational, while seven additional nurseries are undergoing licensing and are expected to open during the 2026–2027 academic year. Besides, 81 nurseries provide services for children with mild disabilities requiring integration into the educational environment. The ministry has also expanded access to private education through its Community Responsibility Project, providing 14,561 school seats, including free and reduced-fee places as well as subsidised seats through the educational voucher system. The initiative is intended to enhance educational opportunities and broaden the choices available to students and families.
School transportation services have likewise been strengthened, with 3,000 buses of various sizes allocated to transport students. The arrangements also include 122 buses and 400 cars dedicated to transporting students with disabilities.
Health and safety preparations have been given particular attention. The ministry has approved 26 qualified food companies to supply food to canteens in government schools, with food items selected according to approved health standards. Schools completed security and safety requirements and strengthened air-conditioning and cooling services to ensure a healthy, safe and comfortable environment for students.
Meanwhile, over 10,000 first-grade students across Qatar’s government primary schools received a special welcome with the launch of First Step initiative. The initiative targets 10,700 newly enrolled first-grade students in 103 government primary schools, providing them with welcome gifts and school supplies accompanied by messages of encouragement and support.
