Nasheed Criticizes Uniform Changes as Wasteful

Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed has criticized the government's decision to change school uniforms, calling it a waste of parents' money. The Education Ministry announced changes, including allowing male students in higher grades to grow beards and requiring girls in grades four and above to wear pants under skirts. Nasheed argued on social media that the changes would cost parents over MVR 80 million, benefiting clothing shops rather than students. He emphasized that students are already adequately covered and that the changes are unnecessary and expensive. The new rules also specify uniform colors and designs, with the ministry stating that the changes will make uniforms easier to obtain starting in 2027.