The decision to introduce co-education in International Indian Schools (IIS) across Saudi Arabia has caused concern among many parents, especially mothers from Hyderabad.
In Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, and Jubail, IIS branches have started mixed-gender classes. Last year, co-education was introduced up to the fifth standard, with plans to extend it to the sixth and seventh standards in some cities from the upcoming academic year.
This move has led to protests from numerous Indian parents who are worried about their daughters' education. They're asking for a review of the co-education policy, saying it makes their daughters uncomfortable and affects their learning.
In Dammam, parents gathered at IIS to demand the withdrawal of the co-education decision. The principal there has put the decision on hold until they improve the infrastructure. However, some parents are still worried it might come back later.
In Jeddah, the expansion to the sixth grade has been put on hold for the next academic year, but co-education will continue up to the fifth grade.
In Riyadh, opinions are divided. Some parents support co-education for practical reasons, while others oppose it. Some suggest segregating genders in the same building, while others want co-education with separate facilities.
There have been instances of teasing and discomfort among students, with one boy skipping school for a week after being teased by classmates. Concerns about shared bathrooms have also been raised, especially for younger children who may not understand the implications.
The Malayali community has been relatively quiet on the issue, but mothers from Hyderabad have been vocal in opposing co-education.
The debate highlights both the benefits and challenges of co-education. While it can promote mutual respect and social skills, it may also lead to distractions and reinforce gender stereotypes.
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