The Saudi Tatweer Education Reforms: Implications of Neoliberal Thought to Saudi Education Policy

Abstract

The King Abdullah Public Education Development Project or the ‘Tatweer’ education reforms were created to improve the quality of teaching and learning in Saudi Arabia. It was a response to develop generations of Saudis who would contribute to the economic well-being of the nation. The Saudi Tatweer education reforms have been important in highlighting questions about power, globalisation and divergence. Therefore, set against a background of neoliberal discourse, I will assess the influences and impact of the drivers within Tatweer – a seemingly market-driven set of education reforms. With reference to Foucauldian thought on power and governance, I will also raise some questions on whether the Tatweer reforms were rigorous and effective enough in improving the level of education within the Saudi context. Finally, I will consider the importance of Ball’s (2003) perspective on performativity, and how market forces and international influence have impacted on Saudi education policy reform.