Oman education: Schools in Muscat close early on Monday

Muscat: All schools in Muscat, Muttrah, Baushar, Al Amerat, Al Seeb, Mawaleh and Al Khoudh were closed early yesterday, according to a directive issued by the Ministry of Education on Sunday.
“According to guidance by the ministry, we would like to inform you that school on Monday, Februray 20 will be until 11pm,” said Dr. Ali bin Hamid bin Seif Al Juhuri, Director General of Education for Muscat Governorate.
“Please allow students, staff members, and administration to leave at the agreed upon timing. Evening class schedules however will continue as usual.”
The measure has been taken in order to prepare for the visit of the Emir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who arrived on a three-day state visit to the Sultanate. Similar steps were taken to accommodate the visit of Dr. Hassan Rouhani, the President of Iran, who visited Oman last week.
In addition, classes at Indian School Muscat were held only until 11am yesterday and there were no classes for the afternoon shift, according to a message from the school.
“Dear parent, as per the instructions from the Ministry of Education, the school (KG-std XII) will work only until 11.00 am,” the message read.
In addition, the British School Muscat had also asked parents and guardians to pick their children early.
“The Ministry of Education has asked schools in Muscat to close early today, due to the Emir of Kuwait’s visit to Oman,” stated Principal Kai Vacher in an email. “Please collect your children between 10:45 – 11am. School will be closed from 11am.
“All after school activities are cancelled today,” he added. “Please share this information with your classes to ensure all parents are aware.”