Kuwait Bans Donations, Sales and Unauthorized Filming in Schools

Kuwait has introduced stricter rules for everyone working in schools, and expat teachers, administrators and support staff should pay close attention. 

The ministry issued regulations and prohibitions covering fundraising, commercial activity, school canteens, events, privacy and professional conduct. The rules also limit what school employees can post on social media and how they handle student photos and personal information.  It applies to teachers, administrators and school operations. It said the measures are meant to strengthen discipline, ensure schools follow approved procedures, and protect students, parents and employees. 

The directives are contained in the ministry’s circular, “Regulations and Prohibitions of Work and Conduct within Schools,” which was published through the Ministry of Education’s official X account. The ministry warned that violations will be referred to its Legal Affairs Department for investigation and may result in disciplinary action. For workers in Kuwait’s education sector, the message is clear: one unauthorized post, fundraiser or school event could lead to an investigation and disciplinary action.

Kuwait MOE Rules and Prohibitions for Work and Conduct Within Schools 

The ministry said the rules aim to protect students, parents and employees, prevent unauthorized commercial activity, and ensure schools follow official procedures. It warned that violations will be referred to its Legal Affairs Department and may result in disciplinary penalties.

The list of rules covered the following:

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Photo credit: MOE Kuwait

Money And Commercial Activity

  • Schools cannot collect money or accept gifts, donations or other contributions from teachers, administrators, students or parents for any purpose.
  • Staff cannot sell, promote or advertise goods or services to students or employees.
  • School positions and facilities cannot be used for personal or financial gain.
  • All purchases, contracts, payments and collections must follow official financial procedures.

For the workers, this means avoiding informal collections for birthdays, farewells, charity drives or classroom supplies unless these are clearly allowed through official school channels.

Food And Canteens

School canteens must comply with health requirements set by the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition and the Ministry of Education. Food or drinks from unapproved sources cannot be sold, distributed or brought into schools.

  • Food or drinks from unapproved sources cannot be sold, distributed or brought into schools.
  • Canteens cannot operate or sell products that violate health requirements or official circulars.
  • Food served at school events must meet Ministry of Health Resolution No. 15 of 2025, including checks on its source, safety, storage and health standards.
  • Schools must supervise canteens daily and ensure regular service, food quality, safety and compliance with official rules.
  • Principals must approve a daily log recording canteen violations, including unauthorized products and staff health issues.
  • A designated staff member must report canteen violations to inspectors from the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition.
  • Contractors must correct violations within at least three working days after a warning. Failure to comply may lead to contract termination.
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Photo credit: MOE Kuwait

Events, Visitors And Filming

  • Schools need written approval before holding events or celebrations involving people from outside the ministry.
  • Filming inside school premises requires explicit written approval.
  • Schools cannot coordinate with, contract with or host outside organizations or individuals without approval from the relevant ministry authorities.
  • All activities must serve clear educational goals and be included in the school’s approved plan.
  • Unapproved events are administrative violations that must be referred immediately to the ministry’s Legal Affairs Department for investigation and possible disciplinary action.

Official Name, Logo And Statements

  • The school name or ministry logo cannot be used in publications, advertisements or promotions without official approval.
  • No one may issue statements or publish content in the name of the ministry or a school without permission from the competent authority.
  • Staff cannot spread rumors, false information or offensive content about the ministry, schools, students or employees.
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Photo credit: MOE Kuwait

Social Media And Privacy

The rules place strong emphasis on student privacy and social media conduct. Staff must obtain prior written consent before photographing, recording or publishing students’ images or personal data.

  • Employees cannot use their official position on social media to discuss ministry affairs or publish photos of ministry workplaces or staff.
  • Student photos, videos and personal data cannot be taken, recorded or published without prior written consent.
  • Student images cannot be shared through personal accounts or private messaging groups.
  • Student photos cannot be linked to personal information or used for non-educational purposes.
  • School records and information about students, parents or staff cannot be disclosed or leaked.
  • Staff cannot request or misuse information unrelated to their duties.

Conduct And Discipline

The circular also sets expectations for classroom behavior and workplace discipline.

  • Teachers and administrators must uphold the reputation of the profession and serve as role models for students.
  • Staff must perform duties honestly, improve their work, and avoid behavior that damages the profession’s standing.
  • Employees must treat students respectfully, protect their well-being, cooperate with colleagues, resolve disputes through official channels, follow working hours and protect school property.
  • Mobile phones and smart devices cannot be used during class for non-teaching purposes when this affects duties or disrupts lessons.

The ministry said it will not show leniency toward violations and will take immediate legal and administrative action where necessary. For the school workers in Kuwait, checking with school management before organizing an activity, accepting a donation or posting anything connected to work is now more important than ever.