Education Ministry Plans Regulation Changes to Dismiss Teachers Found Guilty Of Abuse

The Ministry of Education is planning regulatory changes that would allow the dismissal of teachers found guilty of abusing students following an internal investigation, according to Education Minister Dr Ismail Shafeeu.

The Minister’s comments come amid the recent arrests and suspensions of teachers from four schools across the country over allegations of sexual abuse. He stated that while such incidents often occur outside school premises, ensuring the safety of students and protecting schools from such cases remains a top priority for the Ministry.

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Under current procedures, teachers accused of sexual abuse are typically suspended pending the completion of police investigations and the conclusion of court proceedings. However, the Minister noted that this process can be lengthy, preventing schools from hiring replacements as the accused remain suspended in their posts.

Dr Shafeeu said the Ministry is working to amend existing regulations in coordination with the Civil Service Commission to enable administrative action, including termination, if allegations are substantiated by an internal inquiry. This would allow the Ministry to take disciplinary measures independently of criminal court outcomes.

He emphasised that teachers hold a position of trust within schools and that the Ministry will act decisively to maintain that standard, even in cases where a court verdict is not reached.

The four teachers recently arrested on suspicion of sexual abuse have been suspended for 30 days, with the suspension period subject to extension depending on the progress of investigations.