Saudi Arabia postpones start of academic year

Riyadh: Saudi authorities have decided to postpone the start of the academic year, stated the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Accordingly, high school and secondary levels will commence their studies on November 10. Kindergartens, elementary schools and special needs schools will also postpone their academic year to begin on 17 November.

The decision was announced on Wednesday following extensive discussions between the ministries of health and education, reported SPA.

The decision was taken based on the timeframe of rolling out educational and training programmes for all staff in schools. The kingdom also placed an order of 6 million swine flu vaccines to be made available to students.