Overview of the General Education System

Education in Yemen has evolved significantly over the years, particularly after the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990. Before unification, the two regions had separate education systems influenced by different colonial and ideological backgrounds, (North Yemen under Ottoman and Zaydi influence, and South Yemen under British rule and socialist policies). After 1990, Yemen introduced a unified national education system, though challenges such as political instability, conflict, and economic struggles have impacted its development. Despite these challenges, Yemen has made efforts to improve literacy rates and expand access to education.

Structure of the Education System:

Yemen’s education system consists of three main levels: basic education, secondary education, and higher education.

Pre-Primary Education (Kindergarten) is not compulsory. The access is limited to urban private institutions. It serves children aged 4-5 years. Basic education (Primary and Lower Secondary) is for the age group of 6-15 years old. It is free and compulsory. It includes Grades 1-9. Secondary education is for the age group of 15-18 years old; it includes grades 10-12. Students choose between two tracks:

General Secondary Education: prepares students for higher education.

Technical/Vocational Education: Provides skills for employment.

Students take the General Secondary Examination (Thanawiya Amma) at the end of Grade 12, which determines eligibility for university studies.

Yemen has public and private universities, as well as technical and vocational institutes. Higher education institutions are regulated by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. A bachelor’s degree typically is 4-5 years, depending on the field. A master’s degree is usually 2 years, and a Doctorate (Ph.D.) takes 3-5 years if research-based study. Technical and Vocation training is offered through community colleges and specialized institutes, usually lasting 2-3 years.