Nasheed Criticizes Uniform Changes as Wasteful for Parents

Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed has criticized the Education Ministry's decision to change school uniforms, calling it a waste of parents' money. The new uniform policy, set to take effect in 2027, includes allowing male students in grades nine and above to keep beards and requiring girls in grades four and above to wear pants under skirts. Nasheed argued that the changes are costly and unnecessary, with uniforms estimated to cost at least MVR 900 per student, totaling over MVR 80 million nationwide. He emphasized that students are already adequately covered and the funds would only benefit clothing shops. The Ministry of Education has stated that the new uniform colors align with national symbols and aim to simplify uniform procurement.