Issue of teacher shortages: Some schools unable to teach certain subjects, says Ihusan
Former Deputy Minister Ihusan stated that the growing shortage of teachers in several Maldivian schools is primarily due to a wave of resignations by expatriate educators struggling to remit money abroad. Despite bringing the issue to the Ministry of Education's attention, he noted that the lack of a viable solution is severely hindering student learning. Ihsan emphasized that the government must establish a more efficient remittance system for foreign professionals to ensure they remain in the country's workforce.
Mohamed Ihsan, the former Deputy Minister of Education, speaking during the "Fala Surukhee" program. | Raajje MV
The shortage of teachers in several Maldivian schools has escalated into a significant crisis, leaving students unable to attend classes for certain subjects, according to Mohamed Ihsan, former Deputy Minister of Education.
Speaking on the "Fala Surukhee" program Tuesday night, Ihusan stated that foreign teachers come to the Maldives with a genuine desire to serve, noting that there are exceptionally talented and capable educators within the region.
However, he stated that the sudden and significant changes brought to remittance regulations by the current administration have caused immense hardship for these teachers. He further noted that despite appeals to the Ministry of Education and the Minister to resolve the issue, no solution has been provided to date.
Due to these challenges and the recent restrictions imposed by the Bank of Maldives, foreign teachers and professionals working in this country are left questioning how they can continue to stay if their primary purpose for working here is no longer being met. These individuals have left their families behind in their home countries to work here specifically to provide for them—to put food on the table, to support their spouses and children, and to fund the construction or mortgage of their homes. If they are unable to send their hard-earned money back to their families on time and as needed, there is simply no reason for them to remain employed in this country.Mohamed Ihusan, the former Deputy Minister of Education during the previous administration.
Highlighting the shortage of teachers in Maldivian schools, Ihusan stated that this remains a significant concern for both parents and students. He noted that the absence of teachers has severely disrupted the teaching of certain subjects in several schools. He further mentioned that a city in the Maldives recently had to issue an announcement seeking temporary teachers to cover specific subjects.
I have personally received information from several schools indicating that, within this year alone, numerous small schools have seen four or five of their teachers resign and leave the Maldives. These vacancies are being filled by new recruits in a rushed manner, seemingly just to claim that staffing requirements have been met. However, the reality remains that many schools across the country are currently unable to teach certain subjects due to a lack of teachers. I am stating this based on confirmed information.Mohamed Ihusan, the former Deputy Minister of Education during the previous administration.
Ihusan stated that the government must resolve the challenges faced by expatriate teachers to ensure the best outcomes for Maldivian students. He further noted that other countries also offer attractive opportunities to foreign educators, and if they continue to face difficulties in the Maldives, they will not remain in the country to provide their services.
