A new, flexible student assessment system for private and government schools came into effect yesterday as part of the Education Ministry’s response to the current circumstances.
Education Minister Dr Mohammed Mubarak Juma confirmed that the move is designed to ensure the smooth continuation of the learning process while taking into account the challenges faced by students and families during the past month of distance learning.
He said schools will circulate details of the new mechanism to students and parents, explaining how the assessment phase will be carried out in a way that focuses on essential learning outcomes.
“The move marks what we call an ‘assessment pause’, where we focus on the most important lessons and skills,” he said.
“The aim is to engage students in self-assessment, help schools measure their level of achievement, and make the most of the distance learning period they have experienced.”
The minister stressed that flexibility is a key pillar of the new system, particularly for families facing technical or logistical challenges.
“We understand that some students may have difficulty accessing devices or suitable learning conditions at home,” he said.
“Parents can request to postpone the assessment until schools reopen, or ask for the assessment to be conducted in person at the school.”
He added that another option allows assessments to be completed at home.
“The exam paper can be sent under the direct supervision of the school and later collected for marking, provided that a suitable environment is available for the student at home,” he added.
Dr Juma explained that the assessment process will concentrate on core skills and required educational competencies, with parts of the curriculum reduced, particularly in core subjects.
“We are prioritising essential educational objectives without placing additional burdens on students,” he said.
“This is not a traditional exam period, but a measured evaluation of what truly matters in the learning journey.”
The minister revealed that the second assessment phase – the final exam – is scheduled for May.
This will either take place in schools, if circumstances allow, or continue through the distance learning system.
Dr Juma praised the performance of the ministry’s digital platform, noting high attendance rates and smooth operation throughout the distance learning period.
He confirmed that private schools will follow the same general framework, while taking into account the specific circumstances of each institution.
“Instructions will be communicated to students and parents in private schools in line with this approach,” he said.
Dr Juma assured families that the remaining weeks of the academic term are sufficient to complete learning requirements.
“April and May are enough to complete the educational process and achieve the desired goals efficiently,” he said.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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