Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in reforming its educational curriculum for the 2025-2026 school year, as highlighted in a report by the Institute for Monitoring Peace and Cultural Tolerance in School Education (IMPACT-se). This educational shift aligns closely with the nation’s broader goals outlined in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming for modernization and enhanced cultural tolerance in its educational framework.
Curriculum Improvements and Modernization
The IMPACT-se study assessed 136 textbooks across a variety of humanities subjects and found that the latest materials promote values of moderation, critical thinking, and peaceful coexistence. These updates build upon previous curriculum modifications and reflect a consistent effort to foster a more progressive educational environment. The study indicates a significant reduction in instances of hate speech and discriminatory content that have been criticized in prior evaluations.
One notable finding is that previously identified antisemitic content has been eliminated from Saudi textbooks. The report documented the removal of derogatory comparisons made in earlier materials, and the eradication of negative portrayals of different faiths, including Judaism and Christianity. Specific passages that suggested malign views of Jewish and Christian communities have been completely removed from the educational texts.
Encouraging Religious Tolerance
The report further notes that recent curriculum editions demonstrate a noticeable improvement in representing religious minorities. Textbooks for secondary education now emphasize the importance of peaceful coexistence and open dialogue, reinforcing the notion that these principles are fundamental human necessities. Islamic studies materials have also been updated to illustrate historical examples of peaceful treaties made by the Prophet Muhammad with Jewish and Christian communities, serving as models for conflict resolution.
Moreover, previous negative descriptions of different sects of Islam, including Shi’a Muslims and Sufis, have been softened or eliminated. Lessons that discouraged relationships between Muslims and non-Muslims have also seen significant changes, promoting instead an inclusive perspective within the community.
Continuing Challenges and Areas for Growth
Despite these positive shifts, the report reveals ongoing challenges. While explicit antisemitic tropes have been removed, the history curriculum still fails to address the Holocaust, and references to Israel remain contentious. High school history textbooks discussing World War II omit mentions of the Holocaust, focusing instead on military strategies and leaders without acknowledging the atrocities committed.
Additionally, while some anti-Israel rhetoric has been moderated, the textbooks still lack a nuanced understanding of the current geopolitical landscape. Maps in social studies textbooks previously labeled the entirety of Israel as “Palestine,” and while some neutral terms have replaced overtly hostile ones, the absence of Israel’s recognition in official maps persists.
Aligning Education with Vision 2030
Reflecting the aspirations of Vision 2030, the curriculum reforms have increasingly portrayed women as integral contributors to societal and economic development. Traditional stereotypes about gender roles have been challenged, providing a more balanced view that encourages the active participation of women in various fields.
IMPACT-se’s CEO, Marcus Sheff, commented on the report’s findings, suggesting that the reforms signal a meaningful direction for the educational system. The continuous updates highlight a commitment to fostering peace and tolerance, while navigating the complexities of existing educational settings and religious frameworks. Although further alignment with international standards of tolerance is necessary, the notable removal of extremist narratives marks a significant evolution in Saudi Arabia’s educational content.