In a bold move to revitalize the nation’s educational framework, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has declared 2025 as the year to address pressing challenges in primary education, aiming to significantly boost student pass rates.
Speaking on his inaugural “With the People” podcast, the President underscored the pivotal role of education in nation-building and the formation of an enlightened citizenry.
The President highlighted a troubling decline in pass rates for key subjects among primary students. Between 2015 and 2023, mathematics pass rates plummeted from 58% to 46%, Dhivehi language from 62% to 40%, while English language results stagnated at 54%. President Muizzu attributed these declines to previous neglect and emphasized the necessity of enhancing teacher quality and educational standards to reverse the trend.
“We’ve begun to prioritize primary education, a focus previously overlooked. While results will take time, we anticipate visible progress annually. This year’s goal is to halt the decline; next year, we’ll aim for further improvement,” stated President Muizzu.
The Ministry of Education is actively collaborating with the Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) to expand teacher training programs across the islands. This initiative seeks to address the acute shortage of qualified educators, particularly in subjects like mathematics, English, and the sciences. By facilitating higher education opportunities within local communities, the government aims to make advanced training more accessible and affordable for aspiring teachers.
Furthermore, the administration has unveiled plans to implement 134 education projects throughout the year. These projects are designed to provide essential resources to schools nationwide, including classrooms, laboratories, libraries, staff rooms, and halls, thereby creating a conducive learning environment.
President Muizzu’s comprehensive strategy reflects a steadfast commitment to transforming the educational landscape of the Maldives. By focusing on foundational learning and teacher development, the administration aspires to cultivate a generation of students equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for the nation’s advancement.
