Maldives Cabinet Approves Joining Two UNESCO Higher Education Conventions

The Council of Ministers has decided that Maldives will participate in two UNESCO international conventions, according to a statement from the Office of the President. The Cabinet approved joining the Asian-Pacific Regional Convention on Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education, known as the Tokyo Convention, and UNESCO's Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications Concerning Higher Education. The decision was made after consulting on a proposal submitted by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development during a meeting on the 1st of this month. As the matter requires approval from the People's Majlis under Article 93 (h) of the Constitution, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has decided to submit it to parliament for approval. UNESCO conducted a national assessment titled "National Assessment of the Benefits and Implications of Ratifying the Global Convention and Tokyo Convention" regarding participation in these conventions. In collaboration with the Maldives Qualifications Authority, UNESCO carried out a mission to gather opinions from stakeholders and held focus group meetings involving various sector entities. According to the UNESCO assessment report, participation in these conventions will facilitate bringing the country's higher education sector to international standards, make it easier to bring foreign students and staff to the Maldives, and allow Maldivian students who study abroad to return with foreign degrees that are recognised.