The Ministry of Education in the Maldives has announced the establishment of teacher capacity-building centres to enhance the professional skills of educators and principals across the nation. This significant initiative, known as the Education Centre for Excellence, is a step forward in improving the quality of education and supporting teacher development.
Building Skills and Improving Standards
Education Minister Dr. Ismail Shafeeu highlighted the dual goals of this initiative: strengthening teacher training and improving school evaluations. By focusing on these areas, the Ministry aims to elevate the standard of education in schools nationwide.
The centres will serve as hubs for:
- Professional Training: Equipping teachers and principals with advanced teaching methodologies and leadership skills.
- Quality Evaluations: Enhancing the school assessment process to ensure consistent and high-quality education.
Upgrading Educational Systems
In addition to capacity-building efforts, the Ministry plans to overhaul the Maldives Education Management Information System (MEMIS). The current system will be replaced with a modern, efficient platform to better support the education sector.
Key improvements with the new system include:
- Streamlined Information Management: Easier access to student and teacher records.
- Evidence-Based Decision Making: Using data to shape policies and strategies.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Facilitating seamless communication across education-related agencies.
Supporting Local Educators
The initiative aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to prioritize education and increase the number of qualified Maldivian teachers. To address the shortage of educators, the Ministry has introduced several supportive programs:
- Annual Training for Teachers: Training at least 150 educators each year to meet the growing demand.
- Scholarships for Advanced Studies: Offering scholarships to over 140 students pursuing master’s degrees in teaching, each receiving a monthly stipend of MVR 1,500.
Progress and Challenges
Thanks to nationwide efforts, 640 individuals have enrolled in degree programs this year, reflecting growing interest in the teaching profession. However, challenges remain, with over 2,000 additional teachers still needed across the Maldives' 20 atolls.
By focusing on teacher development and modernizing educational systems, the Ministry of Education is laying a strong foundation for the future. The Education Centre for Excellence initiative is a significant step toward addressing the shortage of qualified educators while ensuring high standards in classrooms.
