The educational system of Saudi Arabia underwent significant changes from 1974-76 in areas of teacher education, modernization of curriculum and instruction on elementary and secondary levels, and in expansion of higher education facilities. Reasons advanced by the Ministry of Education for these changes include an increase of funds for educational purposes, realization of new school building construction as part of Saudi Arabia's five-year development plan (1974-79), and increased interest in curriculum development for girls and special education students. Teaching methods and equipment which were adapted or borrowed from Egypt, the United States, and UNESCO include a reading machine for the blind, teacher training in physiotherapy, and curriculum subject area film series. Two universities and a Center for Oriental Studies were established in 1976 and regulations for post graduate studies at the University of Riyadh were changed to conform to western standards. Changes in secondary and intermediate education center around the introduction of modern science and mathematics, integration of mechanics with physics, increase in guidance and counseling services to girls, and expansion of school lunch and medical services. A Regional Office of Education was established in 1976 to co-ordinate cultural and educational affairs of the Arab Gulf States. (Author/DB)