User:Depaek/Creation and evolution in public education

Saudi Arabia
As a religious state, Saudi Arabia has rejected the theory of evolution in their science education. Science textbooks approved by the Saudi Ministry of Education have associated Darwin with Western philosophy which they reject and perceive to be "problematic". Saudi's denial of evolution originated from the lack of secularization in the nation, the continuing development of its education system, and its homogenic religious population. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, the only co-ed university in the state, received criticism for its co-ed establishment and was called for further scrutiny in its science curriculum. Sheikh Saad al-Shithri, a religious scholar, stated that “the recommendation is to set up sharia committees at this university to oversee these studies and look into what violates the sharia (Islamic law)". He further states, "We are looking at some of the sciences that have included some irregular and alien ideologies, like evolution and such other ideologies”.

According to a poll by Reuters News, Saudi Arabia was ranked the highest in the list of countries that favor creationist views. As an Islamist state, Saudi education policies are centered around the "complete Islamic conception of the universe, humanity, and life". This is referenced in various science textbooks, such a 6th grade textbook mentioning divine creation by citing a Quran verse that states "we have indeed created man with the best of moulds". A 10th grade textbook includes a glossary of biological terms with religious explanation, such as the term adaptation being defined as "Allah, glory to him, created for organisms those characteristics and structures that enable them to live in their different environments".