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Bahrain will enforce strict measures against private educational institutions that breach safety, licensing or fee rules, as part of reforms to improve oversight of a sector serving more than 90,000 students.
The Shura Council yesterday unanimously approved a landmark 36-article bill regulating private educational institutions during its weekly session, replacing a legislation that has been in force since 1998.
The draft law, issued under Decree No 60 of 2025, introduces tougher penalties for violators alongside incentives for high-performing schools, nurseries and education centres.
Education Minister Dr Mohammed Mubarak Juma said the new framework marked a ‘qualitative shift’ in regulation, granting the ministry broader administrative powers to intervene early, correct violations and protect students without disrupting learning.
“This is not about punishment for its own sake,” Dr Juma said.
“It is about verification first, and then investigation where necessary, to ensure that institutions meet approved standards for curricula, buildings, safety and teaching staff.
“Some violations could be dealt with, while others will see staff, teachers, administrators and faculty unfit to continue and in need to be replaced.”
He stressed that no private educational institution would be permitted to raise tuition fees or introduce new charges without prior approval. “Financial transparency and accountability are essential. Parents and students must be protected,” he added.
Under the legislation, the Education Ministry will be empowered to order institutions to immediately stop violations or implement corrective measures within a specified time frame.
Continued non-compliance will trigger escalating penalties – from written warnings and public disclosure of violations at the institution’s expense to temporary suspension of services, fines of up to BD100,000, and, if necessary, placing the school under ministry administration for up to six months.
In the most serious or repeated cases, the law allows for licence suspension or revocation.
Criminal penalties could also apply for grave offences such as operating without a licence, obtaining a licence through fraud, or submitting false or misleading information, with offenders facing up to one year in prison, fines of up to BD100,000, or both. Legal entities could be fined up to double the prescribed amount if offences are committed in their name or for their benefit.
Dr Juma said the ministry’s aim was to raise standards while ensuring continuity.
“We want institutions to succeed, but success must be built on compliance, safety and quality,” he said, noting that protective measures apply to all stakeholders, including students, teachers and parents.
Alongside tougher enforcement, the bill introduces performance-based regulation, allowing outstanding institutions to benefit from incentives and recognition. High-performing schools that meet excellence benchmarks in facilities, space, staffing and learning outcomes will be granted advantages, while underperforming institutions would be required to implement corrective plans.
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Dr Al Salman
Shura Council services committee chairwoman Dr Jameela Al Salman said the law strikes a careful balance between robust regulation and safeguarding students’ rights.
“The committee was keen to ensure that enforcement tools are clear, proportionate and legally sound,” she said. “At the same time, penalties can only be imposed after formal investigation and due process, with institutions retaining the right to appeal administratively and before the courts.”
She added that unifying oversight under the Education Ministry would end regulatory fragmentation.
Once enacted, all private educational institutions, including kindergartens, special education centres and educational service providers, will fall under a single supervisory authority.
“This sector has significant educational, social and economic impact,” Dr Al Salman said. “Modern governance standards are essential.”
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Ms Qassim
Services committee rapporteur Leena Qassim said the bill aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of educational outcomes while improving governance.
“The law organises licensing, management and oversight, encourages responsible investment in education and balances the public interest with the rights of investors,” she said. “It also expands the scope of institutions subject to ministry supervision and strengthens regulatory powers to keep pace with sector developments.”
Following its unanimous approval by the Shura Council, and earlier unanimous endorsement by Parliament, the bill has now been referred to His Majesty King Hamad for ratification.
Shura Council Chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh said the bill would reshape private education governance in Bahrain – rewarding excellence, enforcing accountability and placing student welfare firmly at the centre of regulation.
“Bahrain has a long history as a leader in education since 1919 and it is now taking a push forward in its educational progress,” he added.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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