MP Mohamed Shahid Says Government Aims to Provide Equal Educational Opportunities for All Maldivians

Member of Parliament for the Hulhudhoo constituency, Mohamed Shahid, has stated that the main aim of the current government is to provide equal opportunities to every Maldivian citizen without discrimination, with a particular focus on education. Speaking during a session of the People's Majlis, Shahid highlighted that the national literacy rate stands at 98.2 percent and stressed the need to ensure 100 percent literacy. He argued that this goal can be achieved by ensuring no child misses out on educational opportunities due to disabilities or difficulties, including through the use of a home schooling system. Shahid also called for equality in school meal programmes, stating that all children should receive morning breakfast regardless of their economic background. He emphasised that providing good salaries and benefits to teachers, doctors, and nurses is a government priority, and personally believes that educators should receive the highest salaries. He noted that the government is working to increase revenue by constructing special apartments for teachers in Rasmalé and establishing a teacher city card. However, Shahid alleged that opposition parties are obstructing efforts to secure funds and investments for these initiatives. He also stated that while the government has submitted a bill to the Majlis, it does not have to be passed as is, and that the Majlis has the discretion to make amendments after consulting with experienced individuals from the education sector and former ministers.