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MQA mandates 50% pass rate in all exams for higher education courses

The Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) has decided to change its accreditation regulations, now requiring a 50% pass rate in all examinations for courses offered by higher education institutions in the Maldives, which include numerous colleges and universities.

Speaking to PSM News, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MQA Fizana Rasheed expressed concerns over the practice of students outsourcing their assignments. To address this, she said that higher education institutions have introduced a regulation preventing students from passing courses unless they score at least 50% in the exams. She also confirmed that the new regulations would be published in the Government Gazette, following discussions with the heads of higher education institutions.

Currently, some institutions award between 40% and 70% of the total grade based on assignments alone, with some even allowing students to pass courses entirely through assignments without exams. The practice has resulted in students earning degrees without fully engaging in their academic work. As a result, courses relying entirely on assignments have now been discontinued.

Additionally, the "Procedure for Dealing with Complaints about Higher Education and Training Institutions" prohibits students from offering or completing academic work in exchange for payment or other compensation. Violations of the regulation will result in a fine of USD 324, along with further disciplinary action against the student.