New criteria changes implemented by the government has seen the enrollment of students for A-level education rise to 49 percent, says Education Minister Dr. Ismail Shafeeu.
The government had implemented changes which saw the lowering of criteria for school enrollments for Grade 11 and Grade 12 back in August.
The changes also introduced three ways students can get admitted for A-level classes; through academic streams, vocational education, and apprenticeship programs.
In an interview to Public Service Media (PSM) on Sunday, which the commencement of the new academic year for higher secondary schools, Shafeeu said the increase in A-level enrollments show the policy changes made by the government are producing positive outcomes.
He said that there has been an increase in awareness regarding the importance of A-levels among students and parents.
According to Shafeeu, of the 6,700 students who completed their O-levels in 2023, 2,100 students or 32 percent had enrolled for A-level.
This year, 3,200 students or 49 percent of the 6,500 students who completed their O-levels enrolled for A-levels.
Shafeeu described this 17 percent increase in enrollments as a huge achievement.
He also said that 13 schools in the atolls have begun A-level classes this year, with demand rising for higher secondary education in islands outside the capital.
Shafeeu said that higher secondary education is important for students not just academically, but that the two years are crucial for students to learn life skills and prepare to join the work environment.
He added that the government has decided to create two pathways in higher secondary education; an academic pathway and vocational training.
Shafeeu said that this will be introduced soon.