The Maldivian Scholars Union has urged Education Minister Dr. Ismail Shafeeu to ensure that boys and girls are taught in schools without what they describe as “gender mixing,” arguing that current practices undermine Islamic values and Maldivian culture.
In a letter sent to the minister, the association said that until 2008, major schools in the Maldives maintained separation between male and female students as much as possible. The group claimed that changes introduced under the MDP government in 2008 were rooted in “secular ideology” and were inconsistent with Islamic principles.
The letter referenced a recent incident involving a video circulating on social media that allegedly showed students engaging in inappropriate behaviour inside a classroom at Addu High School. The association argued that such incidents highlight the negative impact of gender mixing on students’ morals and behaviour.
Citing research by international institutions, including Harvard University and the BBC, the Scholars Union said global studies also indicate that gender mixing can influence student behaviour. They called on the government to amend relevant regulations to create what they described as a “gender-neutral”, meaning gender‑segregated, educational environment.
The letter comes shortly after the Ministry of Education introduced new uniform rules requiring female students in grade four and above to wear pants under their skirts if they choose to wear skirts. The change has drawn criticism from some parents and community members.
Arabiyya School remains one of the few institutions in the Maldives that continues to operate with gender segregation.