Doha:The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE) has introduced its inaugural Educational Voucher Policy for private schools and kindergartens. This initiative aims to broaden educational opportunities, promote equity, and ensure equal chances for students through a regulated framework that links support mechanisms to students' individual educational needs.
According to Qatar News Agency, Assistant Undersecretary for Private Education Affairs Omar Abdulaziz Al Naama stated that the policy is based on Law No. 7 of 2012 and its amendments, as well as the Council of Ministers decision No. 25 of 2023. It aims to regulate educational support and maximize benefits for students, especially those with disabilities. The policy is designed to assist Qatari students in enrolling in private schools, ease the financial burden on families, and allow parents to choose suitable educational environments for their children.
The policy outlines eligibility criteria, application procedures, and responsibilities for the ministry, schools, and parents to standardize practices, streamline procedures, and uphold transparency and accountability. It emphasizes the need for accurate information, eligibility adherence, and monitoring of educational services to ensure proper support distribution.
Dr. Rania Yousri Mohamed, Director of the Private Schools and Kindergartens Department, stated that the policy is founded on a comprehensive vision for promoting equity and safeguarding educational rights. It includes financial and educational support aimed at providing fair opportunities for Qatari students, including those with disabilities, through pillars like educational equity and quality reinforcement.
The policy applies to Qatari students in participating private schools and offers additional support for students with disabilities, linked to monitoring and accountability measures. Newly established schools and private kindergartens in standalone buildings are also eligible for educational vouchers, subject to specific criteria.
The policy also addresses the inclusion of students with disabilities, requiring schools to obtain ministry approval for individual educational plans and assessments. Educational vouchers are extended to students improving their academic averages or repeating an academic year, as well as children of retired individuals.
Dr. Rania noted that the maximum voucher value for regular education is QAR 28,000, while for students with disabilities, it ranges from QAR 43,000 to QAR 78,000, covering tuition and rehabilitation services. Voucher invoices are processed through the National Student Information System, with installments in October and February.
Applications for the educational voucher program from private kindergartens in standalone buildings will be accepted starting April 1, 2027, with results announced by the end of June 2027 for the 2027-2028 academic year. The policy has been communicated to all private schools and kindergartens.
Amna Ali Al Mulla, Director of the Special Education and Inclusive Education Department, highlighted the legislative framework supporting the policy, including financial support levels for students with disabilities. The policy's implementation will occur in two phases, covering various disabilities in coordination with the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Social Development and Family.
The Information Systems Department at MOEHE provided details on electronic application procedures via the ministry's platform to facilitate the process. The policy launch supports Qatar's aim to create an inclusive and equitable education system aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Source Qatar News Agency