Minister of Education Dr. Aishath Ali has revealed over 600 teachers are teaching in schools as relief teachers without completing proper training. The Education Minister Aishath Ali said several efforts are exerted by the administration to encourage and motivate teachers.
Noting 634 teachers are serving as relief teachers in primary grades without proper training, the education minister mentioned if the teachers are not given proper training it will affect the students. Speaking in this regard, she said it is important that necessary training are given to teachers.
Furthermore, the minister expressed block mode courses are not as effective, adding face-to-face courses for at least three years is a requirement for a teacher to be fully prepared. Highlighting efforts are underway to bring foreign teachers as the country lacks qualified local teachers, the minister said teachers from India, Sri Lanka, Philippines and Bhutan will be enrolled. However, she said training will be given to existing relief teachers. She further stated people who are interested in taking up teaching as a profession, are decreasing as the required services and benefits are not given.
Speaking on the matter, State Minister Dr. Abdulla Rasheed revealed efforts are underway to amend the current salary structure. In this regard, some changes have been brought to the structure following meetings held with President's Office.
While there are over 9,000 teachers in Maldives, it is notable that 7,000 are local.