As the 2026-2027 academic year begins on Sunday, August 30, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoE-HE) in Qatar has finalized preparations to welcome 419,373 students across 649 public and private schools and kindergartens nationwide. The comprehensive preparations encompass academic, administrative, and operational elements designed to ensure a smooth and effective start to the new school year.
At a Cabinet meeting held last Wednesday, officials lauded the ministry’s efforts and progress in advancing Qatar’s education sector. The Cabinet specifically highlighted initiatives aimed at enhancing staff efficiency and performance, updating curricula to reflect scientific and technological developments, improving education quality, and expanding school capacity in accordance with international standards.
In response to increasing demand for education, the ministry has opened six new government schools, adding approximately 3,600 seats in various districts. Renovation and maintenance work at existing government schools has also been completed ahead of the new term. The teaching workforce in government schools and kindergartens now numbers 17,679, while private institutions employ 25,372 teachers and administrative staff. Additionally, 210 new teachers were recruited through the "Ambition" program, a collaboration with Qatar University’s College of Education aimed at addressing staffing needs in government schools.
Professional development remains a priority, with this year’s annual educational meeting featuring over 15 training workshops focused on teaching methods, educational practices, and performance enhancement. The Ministry’s Training and Development Center will continue to support ongoing teacher training throughout the academic year.
Within the private education sector, 156 nurseries are currently operational, with seven more in the process of licensing and expected to open in the near term. Moreover, 81 nurseries cater specifically to children with mild disabilities, offering integration services.
The ministry has also facilitated access to private education through social responsibility programs, providing 14,561 school seats via free and reduced-fee placements and educational vouchers. Transportation logistics include a fleet of roughly 3,000 buses of various sizes for general student transport, supplemented by 122 buses and 400 cars dedicated to transporting students with disabilities.
Health and safety protocols have been reinforced, with 26 certified food suppliers approved to provide meals in government school canteens, ensuring compliance with health standards. Schools have also completed security upgrades and enhanced air-conditioning systems to maintain a safe and comfortable learning environment.