News Desk
MALE’, Maldives — President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu inaugurated a new teacher training initiative on Wednesday, fulfilling a key pledge to boost the number of local educators in Maldivian schools. Speaking at the Maldives National University (MNU) Auditorium, President Muizzu, joined by Minister of Education Dr. Ismail Shafeeu and other senior officials, awarded scholarships to 135 students enrolled in the inaugural phase of the National Teacher Training Programme.
The programme, a cornerstone of the “Thaiba” educational reform project funded by the Global Partnership for Education, is structured to allow students from Grade 11 onward to start on a path toward a teaching career. Those enrolled will undergo foundational training before progressing into education degrees, with a monthly stipend of USD 97 to support their studies.
The minister highlighted the severity of the challenge, pointing out that over 250 primary-grade teaching positions remain unfilled, with shortages especially critical in science disciplines. Current trends indicate a drop in students taking science exams and low performance in math and science.
Since the programme’s soft launch in March, supported by UNICEF, students from 21 islands have shown interest. Working alongside the Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) and Villa College, the initiative aims to decentralize training, allowing future educators to pursue qualifications closer to home. Nearly 140 students have enrolled this year, with expectations for around 150 more to join next year.
The government hopes that by encouraging young people to consider teaching careers early on, this programme will bring lasting change to the Maldivian education sector, easing reliance on foreign teachers and addressing key subject gaps.
