The First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed delivered a powerful address at the opening of the 7th International Teachers' Conference held at the Centre for Higher Secondary Education today, underscoring the importance of equitable education in the 21st century.
The conference, themed "Educate, Empower, Elevate: Equitable Education for 21st Century Education Excellence," brought together educators, policymakers, and stakeholders nationwide.
In her speech, the First Lady emphasised the need for inclusive education that reaches every child, regardless of their background or circumstances. "Ensuring equity and inclusion in education has been the light that illuminates our path," she stated, highlighting the historical roots of this commitment in the Maldives.
The government's recent pledges to improve teacher wellbeing were a key focus of the address. These initiatives include capping in-school working hours and reducing administrative tasks for teaching professionals, aimed at allowing educators to concentrate on their core mission of teaching. Additionally, the First Lady stressed the importance of ongoing professional development for teachers, including workshops, refresher programmes and mental health support.
Acknowledging the barriers and challenges faced by the Maldivian education system, particularly in island communities, the First Lady called for collaborative, innovative solutions, emphasising technology's role in overcoming geographical barriers and enhancing educational access, methods, and opportunities.
Special recognition was also given to teachers in island communities, praising their roles not just as educators, but as mentors and community leaders.
Prior to the speech, the First Lady received a commemorative plaque from the Minister of Education, Dr. Ismail Shafeeu.
This conference marks a significant step in the Maldives' ongoing efforts to create an inclusive and equitable education system, addressing the unique challenges faced by the island nation.
