Minister: Over 100 teachers warned and suspended when we took office, there’s no intimidation now

Education Minister Dr. Ismail Shafeeu says over 100 teachers were warned and suspended when the incumbent administration took office in 2023, adding that the culture of intimidation no longer exists.

At the ‘Ahaa' public forum held on Monday night, Shafeeu was questioned by a teacher regarding what the incumbent administration has done for teachers.

He responded that public school teachers had been trapped in a climate of fear and intimidation when the incumbent administration took office in 2023, but that they had put an end to it.

“We have created an environment where they can work free of fear and any kind of influence,” he said.

“I remember the complaints we received from various teachers back when we took office. If I were to put a figure on it. It was above 100. They were warned over various things and suspended, creating a climate of fear. Not anymore. We have not taken action against any teacher like before.”

Shafeeu said the incumbent administration’s goal is to create a happy environment in public schools where, instead of facing intimidation, teachers have their contributions valued and recognized.

He added teachers now have the right to criticize government policies without fear of retaliation, stating that instead of warning or suspending teachers over their criticism, they are now being “advised.”

“No teacher is living in fear now. Even if they directly criticize the government. We advise them, we haven’t penalized any teacher. Unlike before, we are treating members of the general public with kindness and compassion. A culture of treating teachers unjustly no longer exists within the Education Ministry,” he said.

Shafeeu said that the government remains committed to not only providing teachers with a safe work environment, but also ensuring their mental wellbeing and job security.