Minister of Education Dr. Ismail Shafeeu has criticised the previous government's decision to begin the academic year mid-year, citing significant financial losses for the state. He revealed that the decision, made against the wishes of 70% of respondents, has strained the state budget.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Shafeeu explained that the government has allocated approximately USD195 million for the academic year. He, however, said that by starting the school year six months later, the budget incurs a loss of USD97 million. He emphasised that the delay not only harms the state finances but also deprives children of six months of education.
Additionally, Minister Shafeeu discussed plans to shift the start of the academic year to January by 2026. He also said that the transition will occur over five terms, in consultation with relevant authorities.
The current academic year begins on March 26 and ends on March 6, with the 2025 academic year starting on April 6. The previous government changed the school year start date in 2021 after half an year hiatus in student attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic, initiating the academic year on August 10. The change has continued annually in August since then.
In response to public dissatisfaction with the mid-year start, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has committed to reverting the academic year start to January, aligning with the education ministry's plans to implement this change by 2026.