Teacher training courses for those working with students with special learning needs or Special Educational Needs (SEN) teachers are set to be launched at the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) and Villa College, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
The course was inaugurated at a special ceremony held at IUM.
The agreement to launch the SEN teacher training programme was signed by the Minister of Education Dr Ismail Shafeeu on behalf of the Ministry of Education. Vice Chancellor of IUM, Dr Ali Zahir signed on behalf of IUM, while Vice Rector Dr Ali Najib represented the Villa College.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Shafeeu highlighted the need to reform teacher training methods in the Maldives.
"Teacher education programmes at universities and colleges must be designed to directly reflect the content teachers are expected to deliver to students. If this is not done, teachers will not be familiar with how to teach children, even if they complete and graduate from a course," he said.
Dr Shina, the Dean of IUM’s Kulliyah of Education, stated that the course is conducted with the aim of ensuring that SEN teachers are competent and well-equipped to meet the needs of their students. She confirmed that the course will commence in September.
Dr Shina further said the 1-year diploma level course will be conducted in every island where IUM has campuses. The opportunity to enrol in the course is now open. She said the course comprises eight modules and includes four additional workshops aimed at improving the capacity of teachers. The course was developed with input from an expert in the field, she said.
The training will also be offered at Villa College starting in September.
The course is fully funded by the government and free for participants. Additionally, each student enrolled will receive USD 100 as pocket money every month.
The Ministry of Education is conducting SEN teacher training as part of the National Teacher Training Programme. The National Teacher Training Programme is a key component of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s education pledges.