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MALE’: The People’s Majlis has accepted a bill proposing amendments to the Education Act to introduce homeschooling for students who require home-based education due to disabilities, mental health conditions or other special circumstances.

The bill was submitted on behalf of the government by Hulhudhoo constituency MP Dr Anaara Naeem. It was first presented to Parliament on October 26.

The proposed amendments seek to establish clear conditions and procedures for providing education at home, based on assessments of students’ physical disabilities, mental health conditions or other special needs.

Under the proposed programme, eligible students would be given the opportunity to continue their education from home, allowing their educational needs to be addressed according to their individual circumstances.

Strengthening the Education System

During the parliamentary debate, ruling-party MPs described the proposed amendments as an important step towards strengthening the Maldives’ education system and safeguarding students’ rights.

They also expressed concern over what they described as attempts by opposition members to create a negative perception of the bill. MPs urged their colleagues not to misrepresent important issues affecting the public.

Clarifying Responsibilities of Parents and Educators

In addition to introducing homeschooling, the bill proposes clarifying the roles and responsibilities of parents, teachers and school principals in managing and delivering school education.

The amendments also seek to address challenges faced in implementing the existing Education Act by introducing changes to improve the administration of the education system.

The proposed legal changes aim to provide a clearer framework for supporting students who require alternative arrangements to continue their education.