Over 600 Students Join Teaching Profession Amid National Efforts to Address Teacher Shortage

The Minister of Education, Dr Ismail Shafeeu, has announced that more than 600 students have begun training for teaching careers this year, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle the nationwide shortage of educators.

Speaking during a programme aired on PSM News, Dr Shafeeu outlined the measures taken to encourage students to enter the teaching profession. He emphasised that the government has prioritised restoring the respect and recognition that teachers deserve, noting a significant improvement in working conditions. Unlike previous years, he highlighted that no disciplinary actions have been necessary against teachers or school principals in the past year.

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Dr Shafeeu revealed that this year has seen the highest number of teacher training opportunities to date. He pointed out that over 600 students are currently pursuing degrees in education, representing a notable increase compared to the previous decade.

The education sector, he explained, currently faces a shortfall of over 2,400 teachers, including 250 required for primary education. To bridge this gap, the government launched a national teacher training programme, offering scholarships to 135 students this year with a target of training at least 150 new teachers annually.

Participants in the programme receive a monthly stipend of USD 97.04. The Ministry of Education stated that the initiative is tailored to address shortages across various subjects and locations, particularly in remote island communities.

The government’s intensified efforts signal a robust commitment to bolstering the education system by investing in the future workforce and ensuring access to quality education across the nation.