The government has held discussions with the institutions representing the education sector, regarding challenges facing the sector due to the Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

The online discussion was led by the Vice President, Faisal Naseem and the Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Ibrahim Hassan, Minister of Education, Dr. Aishath Ali, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Ahmed Zahir and other senior officials from the Maldives National University and the Islamic University as well as other educational institutions were in attendance.

The discussions revolved around the challenges facing the education sector as a result of the pandemic and the activities related to education, the have been initiated across the country.

Mainly, the representatives discussed the lack of human resources and the provision of training programs to strengthen human resources in the sectors lacking in human resources.

They deliberated on procedures to continue education programs for students currently enrolled in higher education programs.

Further, the Vice President briefed participants on relevant tasks current being carried out, the existing and predicted challenges in carrying out those tasks and future plans for the sector.

The meeting concluded with VP Naseem having urged all individuals and institutions to work together with “fresh energy” to develop better capacity and resources, despite the challenges being faced.

He further shed light on the importance of all members of the working-age population to do their part, having reiterated the importance on providing adequate training for retired staff or those who are returning to work for the sector.