National assessors vital for industry sustainability, says Education Ministry

The Ministry of Education and Higher Education Skills Development has stated that the future of the industry is built upon the standards upheld by national assessors. State Minister Dr. Abdurrahim Hassan made these remarks during his speech at the conclusion ceremony of the National Assessor Training Program. The National Assessor Training Program is a course held to train individuals who are examined in various job courses conducted under the National Occupational Competency Standard. This program, run by the Maldives National Skills Development Authority (MNSDA), aims to teach experienced individuals in the technical and labor sectors of the country how to assess human capabilities in accordance with maintained international standards. During the program held from the 28th to the 29th of this month, while delivering the concluding remarks, State Minister of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education Skills Development, Dr. Abdurrahim Hassan, highlighted the role played by assessors in society. He specifically emphasized that these individuals are part of those working on national work. Dr. Abdurrahim stated that there are many reasons why assessors must uphold justice. In this regard, he said that difficulties could arise for an industry to sustain itself in the country due to decisions made by these parties. Furthermore, highlighting the possibility of businesses also facing difficulties, he requested attention to these matters in fulfilling responsibilities. Dr. Zahra Mohamed, CEO of MNSDA, stated that the work of assessors is not just about knowing how to work technically, but determining whether that party is capable of performing that work. Dr. Zahra also called for prioritizing the fairness of assessors and assessing students' work within a single standard. Dr. Zahra also highlighted that if this is not done, difficulties will arise for various industries. Participants who completed the National Assessor Training Program have highlighted the importance of this program. Specifically, they noted that they learned what needs to be considered when assessing students' work, and participants highlighted that ways were taught to facilitate easier assessment methods for students. Permission has been granted to many national assessors so far this year, and an official card indicating that these parties are recognized by the state has now been introduced. The Maldives National Skills Development Authority stated that information regarding the assessor can be known to the assessing party through this card.