Education conferences should focus on discussions that bring positive changes across the entire education sector rather than addressing individual issues, Minister of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development Dr Ismail Shafeeu has said.
The minister made the remarks while speaking at the launch of the “Mashvaraa” Policy Dialogue, organised by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development in collaboration with UNICEF and the Maldives National University to mark Teachers’ Day.
Minister Dr Shafeeu said the government’s vision of transforming the Maldives into a developed nation by 2040 could only be achieved through collective efforts across the education sector. He highlighted the importance of those responsible for developing human resources in advancing national development.
Emphasising the need to strengthen the Maldivian education system, the minister said teachers, principals, students and policymakers must work together to discuss and shape policies. He said conferences should serve as platforms for exchanging ideas and identifying ways to improve the entire education sector rather than focusing on isolated issues.
“The government’s policy is to listen to employees across sectors, provide them with the resources they need and involve teachers in policymaking,” the minister said.
Minister Dr Shafeeu also called on teachers to inspire young people to take pride in the teaching profession, describing this as essential to nurturing successful future generations.
He further stressed the importance of maintaining respect and appreciation for teachers, noting that this responsibility does not rest solely with schools. He said it requires joint efforts by teachers, parents and schools.
The“Mashvaraa” Policy Dialogue at the Maldives National University brought together teachers, students pursuing studies in education, school principals, lecturers and relevant government stakeholders.