Maldives Parliament debates homeschooling bill for special needs students

A bill to amend the Education Act has been submitted to the People’s Majlis in the Maldives, proposing a formal framework for homeschooling. The legislation, sponsored by MP Dr. Anara Naeem, aims to provide educational alternatives for children unable to attend conventional classrooms due to physical disabilities, mental health conditions, or other exceptional circumstances.

Under the proposal, eligible students must already be registered within the formal education system. The Ministry of Education would be responsible for developing regulations and assessment procedures. However, access to these services would be subject to the financial ability of parents or legal guardians to provide the necessary educational services.

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) lawmakers have raised concerns regarding the bill's potential risks. During parliamentary debates, MPs warned that inadequate regulation could lead to more children being kept out of school. Specific concerns include the potential for extremist views to influence home education and the lack of a robust monitoring framework. Critics also questioned whether local island councils would possess the necessary resources and authority to oversee homeschooling arrangements effectively.