A special policy dialogue was held today to mark International Teachers’ Day 2026, bringing together policymakers, teachers, student teachers and young people to discuss ways to improve the education sector in the Maldives.

The opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development Dr Ismail Shafeeu, UNICEF Representative to the Maldives Dr Edward Addai, and Chancellor of the Maldives National University Dr Mahmood Shougee.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister highlighted the need to take the Maldivian education system to the next level, stressing the importance of collaboration among education policymakers, school principals and teachers in shaping the future of education.

The dialogue provided a platform for participants to exchange views on teacher recruitment, professional training and the challenges of preparing teachers to meet the needs of a new generation of learners.

Discussions also focused on developing high-quality teachers equipped with the knowledge and skills required to deliver effective education in a changing learning environment.

The dialogue aimed to ensure that the voices of teachers and student teachers are heard and considered in education policymaking. By bringing these groups together with policymakers and other stakeholders, the initiative sought to encourage open discussion and identify practical ways to address challenges within the sector.

The policy dialogue was organised by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development in collaboration with UNICEF and the Maldives National University as part of the celebrations marking International Teachers’ Day 2026.