By Majd Othman

KUWAIT: In a recent decision that has left the Kuwaiti community in shock, the ministry of education accepted the suggestion of the values promotion committee at the National Assembly to prevent mixed classes at Kuwait University by segregating study sessions between males and females. This decision, which has ignited a fierce controversy, has faced widespread opposition from both the public and some government representatives, who have submitted a petition to reverse this decision.

Kuwait University students also staged a sit-in to voice their rejection of this move, viewing it as an encroachment on their freedom. On the other hand, some students who support segregated classes see it as a solution to the problem of class shortages that both the university and its students have been grappling with. Kuwait Times gathered opinions from various segments of the population, revealing significant discontent with this decision.

Many argue that this prohibition on gender mixing represents a troubling first step towards further restrictive measures infringing on personal freedoms. Citizen Mohammad Al-Musallam criticized the decision, describing it as ill-considered and likely to lead to delays in students’ graduation. He emphasized the Kuwaiti community’s commitment to maintaining respect between genders.

Noora Al-Mutairi deemed the decision illogical, pointing out that even significant Islamic authorities like Awqaf do not enforce such segregation among their staff. She argued that individuals should not be compelled to adhere to the beliefs of others unless there is a clear religious or legal basis for doing so. Supporters of the decision have a different perspective. Some citizens, including students, do not oppose the decision but are concerned about its potential impact on class availability.

They fear that many classes might be canceled due to reduced student enrollment, adversely affecting students’ educational journeys. Meanwhile, on social media, there were expressions of surprise at the widespread rejection of the decision, particularly among females. Some questioned the benefits of gender mixing for female students in their academic pursuits.

One student who agreed with the decision criticized its opponents, stating that segregating classes resolved the issue of classroom shortages that all students had been struggling with, and questioned why it was causing such problems. Legal experts and rights activists also weighed in on the matter. Dr Sheikha Al-Jassem, a rights activist and philosophy professor at Kuwait University, vehemently rejected the decision.

She characterized it as emblematic of an enduring conflict between political Islam and liberal values. She pointed out that since Kuwait University’s establishment in 1966, education has been coeducational, with a majority of female students. Dr Jassem further argued that there is no discernible economic benefit in offering classes exclusively for males, given their low representation.