Education System in Jordan

Jordan, officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is a small nation located in the Middle East, with a population of approximately 5.6 million people. The majority of its residents are of Arab descent, predominantly Sunni Muslims. The capital city, Amman, is situated in the northeastern part of the country, close to the border with Israel. Jordan operates as a constitutional monarchy, with King Abdullah II serving as the current monarch since 1999. Despite limited natural resources, Jordan has focused on industrialization since the 1960s, developing sectors such as hydro-electric power, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. The country has also embraced globalization, becoming a member of the World Trade Organization and establishing trade agreements with the United States and the European Union.

Overview of the Education System

The education system in Jordan is characterized by its structured approach, encompassing various levels designed to meet the educational needs of its citizens. Education is a priority in Jordan, with nearly one-third of the population enrolled in educational institutions. The government provides free education for primary and secondary levels, which is mandatory for children up to the age of fifteen. The Ministry of Education plays a crucial role in overseeing these educational facilities, ensuring accessibility across urban and rural areas. As a result, Jordan boasts a high enrollment rate of over 95% for school-aged children.

Primary Education

Primary education in Jordan is divided into several stages:

• Pre-School Education: This initial phase lasts for 2 years and serves as an introduction to formal learning.
• Basic Education: Comprising 10 years of education, this stage is designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills.
• Secondary Education: After basic education, students can choose between 2 years of academic or vocational training.

In Jordan, primary education is integrated with what is known as middle education in other countries. Students have the flexibility to attend either private or public schools, reflecting the nation's commitment to educational accessibility.

Secondary Education

Secondary education in Jordan presents both opportunities and challenges.

• The program lasts for 2 years, culminating in eligibility for university applications.
• Students face issues related to class and gender discrimination, which can impact their educational experience.

Core subjects offered during this stage include:

• Arabic
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Earth Science
• English
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Social Science
• Islamic Studies (with alternative provisions for Christian students)

Vocational Education

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach to learning, vocational education is an attractive option:

• Students can enroll in 2 years of vocational training at technical secondary schools.
• The curriculum includes intensive practical training and opportunities for apprenticeships.

Graduates from vocational programs are also eligible to further their education at community colleges and universities, providing a pathway for continued learning.

Tertiary Education

Jordan's tertiary education landscape includes a mix of public and private universities, with about 2.5% of the population engaged in higher education at any time.

Tertiary education encompasses:

• Bachelor's degrees
• Master's degrees
• Doctoral programs
• Teacher education
• Non-traditional distance-learning courses

The University of Jordan, established in 1962, is the oldest higher education institution in the country and is renowned for its academic excellence, hosting nearly 40,000 students. It stands out as one of the most prestigious universities in the Arab world, contributing significantly to the educational advancement in the region.

In summary, Jordan's education system is structured to support a diverse range of learning paths, ensuring that students have the opportunity to pursue their academic and vocational interests in a supportive environment. The emphasis on accessibility and quality education is a cornerstone of Jordan's development strategy, reflecting the nation's commitment to fostering an educated populace.