Minister of Education Dr Ismail Shafeeu has called for urgent reforms to improve student outcomes, noting that academic performance continues to lag despite nearly MVR 4 billion in Government spending on the education sector.

Speaking at the High Achievers Award ceremony held this morning, Minister Dr Shafeeu expressed concern over stagnant results, particularly in secondary education. He noted that recent data from 2023 and 2024 reflects a decade-long pattern, with about half of students still failing to achieve a grade 'C' or higher in five subjects.

The Minister attributed the underperformance to systemic challenges, pointing out that the combined efforts of educators, supervisors, and substantial public investment have yet to yield the desired outcomes.

He also highlighted a troubling decline in student progression between O-level and A-level examinations. Of the more than 840 students who completed A-levels this year after ranking in the top 10 of their O-level cohort, only 36 per cent retained a top 10 position. The remaining 64 per cent fell behind.

Minister Dr Shafeeu linked these trends to weak foundational learning at the primary level, particularly in English, Mathematics, and Dhivehi. He said early academic gaps appear to be undermining students’ long-term performance.

To address the issue, the Minister outlined several ongoing initiatives, including curriculum revisions and increased access to external training opportunities for teachers and school principals.