In a significant policy shift, the Ministry of Education will place special priority on ethics and moral upbringing within the secondary education system starting next academic year.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Dr Ismail Shafeeu in an interview with PSM News, emphasising that true education extends beyond academics and must be a collective societal effort.
"Education cannot only be given in the school environment but the whole society should be involved," he stated, calling for a collaborative approach where parents and teachers work together to implement these policies.
The goal is to ensure students are taught good manners, positive characteristics, and strong moral values. This initiative is being undertaken under the special guidance of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
The Minister elaborated on the broader vision, stating that Maldives’ economy is driven by welcoming tourists making it imperative for locals to show good customs and good morals.
In a related move to support this focus on a distraction-free learning environment, President Muizzu had recently announced a strict policy on mobile phone use in schools.
Beginning next year, students under Grade 10 will be prohibited from bringing phones to school, while A-Level students will be permitted to bring their devices, but must store them in a special locker during school hours.
The Ministry confirmed it is now working to take the necessary steps to implement these new policies aimed at fostering a generation of well-rounded, ethical citizens.