Minister says schools are being made safer, happier and more supportive for teachers

Minister of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development Dr Ismail Shafeeu said Monday that extensive efforts have been undertaken to make schools safer, happier and more nurturing environments, while strengthening mental health support for both teachers and students.

In his address on the occasion of this year’s Teachers’ Day, Dr Shafeeu highlighted the importance of honouring the noble sacrifices teachers make to build a knowledgeable, skilled and hardworking generation. He said the government is working to elevate the teaching profession by strengthening the respect and recognition afforded to teachers in Maldivian society.

“A great deal of work has been carried out to ensure that school environments are safe, to provide teachers with modern and technical training, and to support the mental wellbeing of both teachers and students,” he said. The minister assured that the ministry will continue advancing these efforts.

Dr Shafeeu also urged parents and the wider community to extend greater cooperation in recognising the art of teaching, noting that teachers shoulder the profound responsibility of serving as second parents to students.

2026 ވަނަ އަހަރުގެ މުދައްރިސުންގެ ދުވަހުގެ މުނާސަބަތުގައި މިނިސްޓަރ ޑރ. އިސްމާޢީލް ޝަފީޢު ދެއްވި ޚިޠާބުގެ ތެރެއިން https://t.co/ZW0V1DB0u7

— Ministry of Edu, Higher Edu and Skills Development (@MoEdumv) October 5, 2026

He further encouraged teachers to focus on building responsible, well‑behaved students who are motivated to learn, and emphasised the importance of involving all students in the learning process. The minister also advised students to familiarise themselves with technology and modern developments.

International Teachers’ Day is celebrated globally on October 5 each year. First marked in 1994 by UNESCO and the ILO, the day aims to recognise the invaluable contributions of teachers and encourage improvements in their rights and working conditions.

In the Maldives, the day is celebrated colourfully across schools. Special assemblies are held, teachers receive red‑carpet welcomes, and students perform stage items and organise fun activities. Senior students often take on teaching roles to give teachers a break, while schools host banquets and present awards and mementos in recognition of teachers’ service.