Kuwait Ministry Oversees 462 Nurseries, Plans Fee Study and Digital System

Kuwait's Ministry of Social Affairs has licensed 462 nurseries nationwide, with all facilities operating under the ministry's strict supervision and regulatory framework. Dr. Khaled Al-Ajmi, Undersecretary of the ministry, highlighted that this number signifies growth in early childhood services and underscores the ministry's commitment to continuous monitoring and development to ensure high-quality care for children.

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this number confirms the expansion of early childhood services in the country and puts more responsibilities on the shoulders of the ministry to continue its monitoring and development efforts in order to ensure that the best quality of services are provided to the children.

The licensing process is rigorous, with the ministry receiving 64 applications for new nurseries this year. These applications undergo thorough legal and technical evaluations against unified, transparent standards. Al-Ajmi stressed that granting a license is merely the first step, followed by ongoing inspections, follow-ups, and evaluations to ensure compliance. He noted that 50 applications were rejected for failing to meet legal and technical requirements, emphasizing that leniency could compromise child safety and service quality. Applicants are informed of deficiencies to allow for resubmission after meeting conditions.

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the ministry does not simply grant licenses, as it considers this step the beginning of the ongoing monitoring phase that includes inspection, follow up and evaluation to ensure compliance with the regulations.

Oversight of private nurseries is a paramount responsibility for the ministry, directly linked to child protection and allowing no room for negligence. To enhance these efforts, an electronic system via the ‘My Nursery’ application will be implemented, streamlining monitoring and offering online services. Recognizing families' concerns about tuition fees, the ministry is forming a team to conduct a comprehensive study. This study aims to balance family interests and financial burdens with the sustainability of nursery services, acknowledging that fees vary based on the services and facilities offered. Recently, 75 inspection tours were conducted across various governorates as part of the ministry's ongoing monitoring plan.

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leniency during the licensing process could negatively affect the services or the safety of the children in the future.