President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to placing education at the centre of national development, marking the International Day of Education.

In a message, the President stated that education has been prioritised as a core pillar of national development under his Administration.

Reflecting on the significance of the International Day of Education, the President said the occasion serves as a reminder that education is the foundation of sustainable development and global progress. He emphasised the importance of empowering young people as co-creators of education and ensuring that learning remains inclusive, relevant and transformative.

The President also highlighted his Administration’s focus on comprehensive education reform, despite challenges such as climate vulnerability and changing labour market demands.

He highlighted that the Administration continues to prioritise inclusive education, including the introduction of a dedicated national training programme for Special Educational Needs teachers. The President also outlined plans to reshape learning pathways by strengthening vocational education and training, with an emphasis on employability and nationally recognised certifications.

In addition, President Dr Muizzu noted that over the past two years, more than 6,000 students have graduated through the first-degree scheme, while more than MVR 1 billion has been disbursed in student loans. He also pointed to efforts to address teacher shortages through the National Teacher Training Programme and ongoing initiatives to improve education quality through curriculum reforms, digital transformation and international partnerships.

Concluding his message, the President called on all stakeholders to work collectively to build an education system that empowers every Maldivian, and shared his vision for a sector that develops strong youth not only as learners, but as active contributors to education for generations to come.

The International Day of Education is observed annually on 24 January to recognise education as a fundamental human right, a public good, and a key driver of peace and sustainable development worldwide.