Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that teaching Islamic studies in English is acceptable if it helps students better understand the subject, amid public debate over challenges in conveying certain Islamic lessons to learners.

The minister made the remarks in response to concerns that some students struggle to grasp concepts from Islamic texts and often resort to writing reflections in English to explain what they have learned. He noted that the focus of religious education should be on comprehension rather than language alone.

Minister Dr Shaheem said the Islamic curriculum within the Maldivian education system needs to be restructured in a clearer and more accessible manner, suited to the learning needs of the present generation. He stressed that such changes are aimed at improving understanding, not altering religious principles.

According to the minister, revisions should include updates to the style, layout and organisation of Islamic textbooks, ensuring that content is appropriate to students’ age and grade levels. He also said dividing Islamic subjects into more focused sections or modules could help students engage with and understand the material more effectively.

The minister also spoke on the development of the Dhivehi language, stating that teaching Dhivehi language as a subject remains important for its growth. However, he noted that converting the entire education system to Dhivehi may not be practical or beneficial for the Maldives at this time.