Sudden changes introduced to education system under current administration are causing psychological distress among students and teachers: Faisal

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem has stated that abrupt changes to the education system are placing immense pressure on students and teachers, leading to numerous psychological challenges.

Speaking at the MDP's campaign hub meeting on Wednesday night, Faisal stated that the previous two MDP administrations had placed the highest priority on strengthening and expanding the education system.

Faisal stated that significant efforts were undertaken to construct schools, enhance educational resources, and provide comprehensive training for teachers. He further noted that the objective at the time extended beyond mere academic rote learning, focusing instead on nurturing students who were well-prepared for the workforce and practical life.

However, Faisal stated that under the current administration, the education sector is in a state of uncertainty, with abrupt changes being made to both the academic calendar and the curriculum. Faisal further emphasized that such significant changes to the education system should only be implemented following thorough research and extensive consultation with relevant professionals in the field, noting that this is the standard practice followed by other countries worldwide.

Furthermore, Faisal stated that making abrupt changes to the syllabus and academic calendar without proper assessment is no trivial matter. He noted that these adjustments have turned Saturdays into regular school days, resulting in a significant psychological toll on both teachers and students.

The curriculum is a fundamental framework that, in any other country, undergoes revision only after extensive research, rigorous studies, and exhaustive consultations with relevant professionals in the field. However, in our context, altering the syllabus, the curriculum, or abruptly shifting the academic calendar and timetables is treated as a trivial matter. What we must recognize is the immense pressure these sudden changes impose on both students and teachers today.

Faisal Naseem

Faisal stated that the well-being of the Maldivian people must be prioritized, emphasizing that the interests of students and teachers should be the primary consideration in such matters.