Education Ministry Announces New Initiatives to Support Teachers’ Mental Health
Minister of Education Dr Ismail Shafeeu outlined several new initiatives aimed at supporting the mental health and well-being of teachers in the Maldives.
During in an event organised by the Maldives National University (MNU) Student Union to commemorate Teachers’ Day, Dr Shafeeu highlighted the various challenges that teachers face, with particular emphasis on the strain this can place on their mental health. He noted that the majority of teachers—approximately 80%—are women who often balance demanding workdays with household responsibilities. This dual burden, he explained, can contribute to significant stress levels among teachers.
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Dr Shafeeu also pointed out that existing legislation lacks specific provisions for teacher mental health, leaving a gap in formal support mechanisms. He acknowledged that concerns about mental health have been raised frequently by educators and pledged that the ministry would take substantial steps to address this issue.
One of the key measures announced was the designation of Fridays as a non-working day for teachers, a move intended to give them a day of rest and more time with family. Dr Shafeeu expressed hope that this policy would improve work-life balance and contribute positively to teachers’ mental health. He also underscored the need to cultivate a supportive and healthy work environment for educators.
In addition to these mental health initiatives, the Ministry of Education is focusing on enhancing teachers’ professional development. Efforts include strengthening the National Institute of Education (NIE) and expanding training opportunities. To further encourage interest in the teaching profession, the ministry has launched a teacher training programme which has attracted over 130 students so far.
These efforts, Dr Shafeeu concluded, are part of a broader commitment by the government to ensure a supportive and sustainable environment for educators in the Maldives.
