The Quality of Education in Saudi Arabia and the Social and Economic Implications

Abstract

This study critically examines the quality of education in Saudi Arabia, focusing on its implications for the country's socio-economic development. Utilizing a pragmatic approach, the research integrates both qualitative and quantitative data through an extensive literature review and secondary data analysis. The study analyses key dimensions of the Saudi educational system, including curriculum relevance, teacher quality, student outcomes, equity and inclusion, and the learning environment. Data from sources such as the OECD, TIMSS, and PISA assessments, alongside national reports, reveal persistent challenges in the alignment of the Saudi curriculum with the demands of a modern economy. The study also highlights significant disparities in educational quality between urban and rural areas, with rural students consistently underperforming in international assessments. The research further explores the implications of these educational shortcomings through the lenses of the Capability Approach and Dependency Theory, showing centralization, governance, and displaced ideologies within the educational system that influence long-term educational outcomes. The findings reveal significant gaps in educational quality, with implications for workforce readiness and socio-economic equity. These insights suggest a critical need for policy reforms that address the disparities and inefficiencies within the Saudi education system, with a view to enhancing its alignment with global educational standards and the evolving demands of the labour market. The study concludes that without significant reforms in curriculum design, teacher training, and resource allocation, the Saudi education system may continue to fall short in preparing students for the demands of a globalized economy. These insights highlight the need for a more flexible, localized, and contextually relevant educational policy that can address the diverse needs of Saudi students and support economic and social development.