The year 2024 was a transformative one for the Maldives, marked by substantial progress in education, higher education, and workforce development. Key initiatives by the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, and various institutions contributed to building a more skilled workforce, empowering educators, and expanding opportunities for students across the country.

A significant focus of the Government in 2024 was the empowerment of teachers and the improvement of the quality of education. Under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s leadership, the Administration introduced various programmes aimed at enhancing the educational experience for both students and teachers. Teacher training workshops were conducted, and scholarships were provided to students pursuing teaching careers. These efforts aligned with the Government's broader vision of equipping the next generation with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development played a crucial role in fostering the growth of higher education and training. One of the key functions of the Ministry was to implement policies that enhance the delivery of quality higher education and training, ensuring that Maldivian students have access to world-class learning opportunities. In 2024, the Ministry focused on strengthening the connection between employers and job seekers, facilitating career guidance, and creating greater employment opportunities for Maldivians.

In line with these goals, a series of financial assistance programmes were launched to support students in their educational pursuits. These included loan schemes, scholarship opportunities, first degree scheme and short-term training programmes aimed at providing the skills necessary for success in the workforce. The Government also entered into agreements with foreign universities and institutions, enabling local students to benefit from discounts on tuition fees and access to training abroad.

Additionally, Maldives National University and The Islamic University of Maldives continued to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education in the country. These institutions worked to improve educational standards and offer students a broad range of academic programmes.

Simultaneously, technological advancements were embraced to support teaching and learning, with pilot programmes developed in collaboration with the international community.

The Government continues to work tirelessly to promote the development of a strong, skilled workforce. Accordingly, several important steps were taken in 2024, including the formulation of regulations to implement the Higher Education and Training Act. The ministry also focused on improving the productivity of local workers and creating policies to enhance workplace safety and employment standards.

To address the growing demand for skilled labour, efforts were made to connect job seekers with employers, particularly in sectors facing shortages. The National Job Centre was restructured as the National Career Service to offer more streamlined and effective job placement services, while the Emmennah Vazeefaa policy was introduced to reduce involuntary unemployment over the next five years.

The year 2024 saw significant expansion in the higher education and training landscape, with two universities, 10 private colleges, and 84 private institutes now operating in the country. Maldives Polytechnic continued to play a vital role in offering skills training, including specialised programmes aimed at those with disabilities, such as cake decoration and baking courses for individuals with hearing loss.

The Government also focused on creating job opportunities for older workers, with a focus on sectors that face difficulties in hiring. New laws, such as the Industrial Relations Act and the Workplace Safety and Health Protection Act, were introduced to improve working conditions and ensure the well-being of employees across various industries.

As part of the ongoing development of the education system, the Government established a National Research Fund to support academic and scientific research. Efforts are also underway to appoint members to oversee the fund and ensure its effective use in advancing the nation's knowledge base.

The Ministry also continued to foster international collaborations, with discussions held with embassies, universities, and international institutions to expand the opportunities available to Maldivian students.