Introduction

ETEC provides an Open Data Platform to serve as an accessible source for individuals and public and private entities. This initiative reflects ETEC’s belief in the principle of transparency, its encouragement of community collaboration in education and training, and its commitment to fostering innovation and progress. The platform empowers individuals and institutions to access and utilize data and information related to the state of education and training in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The platform offers various reports and statistical data in multiple formats that help beneficiaries — such as researchers and specialists — to easily process, reuse, classify, and analyze the data as needed. This contributes to the optimal use of data, enables the research community to utilize a wide range of information for enhancing research ideas and the quality of analyses and outcomes, and supports the advancement of scientific research and innovation in education and technology.

Utilizing Open Data

ETEC grants the public the right to access open data, while emphasizing the responsibility of each beneficiary to use these data in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Beneficiaries may submit their opinions and suggestions regarding the “Open Data Platform” by submitting a data request.
ETEC assumes no responsibility for any direct or indirect damage incurred by entities resulting from the use or misuse of data published on its website. ETEC does not guarantee the continued availability of these data or any portion thereof and bears no responsibility for any consequences or damages resulting from their reuse.
ETEC is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or inconsistencies in the open data, nor for any analyses, decisions, or outcomes derived from their use.
ETEC reserves the right to modify (partially or fully), update, or withhold data without prior notice.

Users can also access ETEC’s open data through the National Open Data Portal by clicking here.

Open data are considered a subset of public information, as defined by data classification levels outlined in the Data Classification Policy.

This Open Data Policy has been developed and approved by the authorized body to ensure proper governance and compliance with its provisions.

1. Definitions

Commission (ETEC): Education and Training Evaluation Commission.
Policy: The Open Data Policy.
Data: A set of facts in their raw or unorganized form, such as numbers, letters, still images, videos, audio recordings, or emojis.
Open Data: A defined subset of public information — machine-readable, freely available to the public without restrictions, and usable or shareable by any individual or public/private entity.
Data Access: The ability to logically and physically access data and technical resources for the purpose of use.
Data Availability: Ensuring reliable and appropriate access to and use of data when needed.
Data Confidentiality: Maintaining authorized restrictions on access to or disclosure of data.
Protected Data: Data classified as Top Secret, Secret, or Restricted.
Data User: Any individual authorized to access, view, use, or update data as per the permissions granted by the Business Data Representative.
National Open Data Platform: A unified national platform responsible for managing, preserving, and publishing open data sets across the Kingdom.
Open Data License: A license that governs the use of open data.
Open Format: A widely accepted, non-proprietary, machine-readable format that enables automated data processing and facilitates analysis and research (e.g., CSV, XLS, JSON, XML).

2. Scope

This policy applies to all non-protected public data and information owned or produced by ETEC, regardless of their source, form, or nature. This includes, but is not limited to, paper records, emails, computer-stored information, audio or video recordings, maps, photographs, manuscripts, handwritten notes, and any other recorded form of information.

3. Core Principles of Open Data

Data Availability as a Default
Data are made available to the public unless their nature requires confidentiality or protection of privacy.
Open and Machine-Readable Formats
Data are published in machine-readable formats that allow automated processing (e.g., CSV, XLS, JSON, XML).
Data Timeliness
The most recent versions of open data sets are published regularly and made available to the public as soon as they are ready. Priority is given to data that lose value over time.
Comprehensiveness
ETEC ensures that open data sets are as comprehensive and detailed as possible, consistent with privacy and data protection policies. Metadata and explanatory notes are provided to clarify data sources and calculation methods.
Non-Discrimination
ETEC provides open data access to everyone equally, without requiring registration.
Free Access
ETEC provides open data free of charge to all users.
Open Data Licensing in Saudi Arabia
Open data are governed by a license that defines the legal basis for their use, the user’s obligations, and applicable restrictions. Use of open data implies acceptance of the license terms.
Governance and Collaboration
Open data enable broad participation, enhance transparency and accountability, and support informed decision-making and improved public services.
Inclusive Development and Innovation
ETEC is committed to fostering the reuse of open data, providing resources and expertise, and working collaboratively to empower the next generation of open-data innovators. This includes engaging individuals and institutions in realizing the full potential of open data.

4. Use of Open Data

ETEC grants all users the right to access and use open data freely while holding them personally responsible for ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

5. ETEC Responsibilities

ETEC bears no responsibility for any harm or misuse of data published on its website, nor does it guarantee the continuous availability of such data or any portion thereof.
ETEC is not liable for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in open data, or for decisions or analyses based on them.
ETEC reserves the right to modify, update, or withdraw any data, in whole or in part, without prior notice.

6. Data Reference

This policy is derived from the National Data Governance Policies issued by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA).