Minister of Education issues decision on determining work centers for teaching and administrative staff in schools

Kuwait City, Aug 10 (KUNA) — The Minister of Education, Sayed Jalal Al-Tabatabai, issued a decision today, Thursday, regarding the determination of the workplace for members of the teaching and administrative staff in general education schools following their return from long leaves, in accordance with the school’s operational needs.

The Ministry of Education stated in a press release that there is no absolute legal obligation compelling the Educational Affairs Sector to retain an employee in their designated workplace, location, or department after returning from a long leave, provided that the transfer or reassignment decision complies with legal regulations and does not constitute a disguised punishment.

It clarified that the Educational Affairs Sector possesses broad discretionary authority to organize work flow and distribute staff in line with public interest and operational requirements. It noted that an employee’s absence during a long leave—such as maternity leave, study leave, or extended sick leave—may necessitate filling the vacancy with a replacement or restructuring the department.

The ministry emphasized that such measures fall within the regulatory powers granted to the Educational Affairs Sector, ensuring the continuity of operations and the smooth functioning of public services while adhering to the legal regulations governing transfers and workplace assignments.

It further added that the organization and distribution of teaching and administrative personnel are linked to the actual operational needs of schools and departments, enabling the competent authorities to manage changes resulting from prolonged absences and to ensure the continued performance of tasks and responsibilities assigned to various sectors of the educational system. (End) M.A.R. / A.M.H.