The Ministry of Education, in partnership with UNICEF, supported by Google for Education and the UNICEF Global Learning Innovation Hub launched the “TechPath” – an initiative aiming to find innovative digital solutions to enhance access, quality, and inclusion in education and learning.
The initiative was launched by Dr. Ismail Shafeeu, the Minister of Education, together with Dr. Edward Addai, UNICEF Representative to the Maldives on Wednesday afternoon.
The “TechPath” initiative showcases the Maldives government’s partnership with Google for Education and with the UNICEF Global Learning Innovation Hub and focuses on harnessing the power of technology to improve learning outcomes. The initiative also aims to develop 21st century skills and help children identify and address real-world issues in heir communities.
The “TechPath” is being piloted with over 1,698 students in 15 schools across the Maldives. The initiative will have three specific outcomes these partnership aim to to achieve are:
- Enhance foundational learning in early grades – Grades 2 to 3
- Improve attainment of 21st century skills in adolescents – Targeting Grade 7
- Contribute to strengthening the “satellite school” model, expanding to grades 11 and 12, allowing remote learning options for higher education
Through this partnership, UNICEF, Google for Education and with the UNICEF Global Learning Innovation Hub, are also working with the National Institute of Education, led by the Education Ministry to create an “enabling environment” to achieve the intended outcomes.
“By integrating digital tools into our classrooms, we are not merely enhancing traditional learning; we are equipping our students with the ability to think critically, collaborate effectively, and innovate continuously,” said Minister Shafeeu.
“This evolution in education is not just about academic outcomes; it’s about preparing our students to become responsible digital citizens. These are citizens who can navigate the complexities of modern life with confidence and integrity.”
Speaking about this initiative, UNICEF Representative to Maldives, Addai said, “Today, we take a significant step towards empowering our children with the tools they need to thrive in a digital world.”
“The Chromebooks and Micro: bit devices are not just tools; they are gateways to creativity, innovation, and a bright future.”
A total of 735 ACER Chromebooks, 73 Lenovo Gen 3 Chromebooks and 90 micro:bits were handed over to the Education Ministry on Wednesday as part of this partnership.
“Our work with Google for Education to promote cost-effective digitally enabled learning ecosystems will not only enrich the educational landscape of the Maldives but also inspire learners and educators to harness technology for improved outcomes,” said Frank van Cappelle, Head of UNICEF’s Global Learning Innovation Hub in Helsinki.
Colin Marson, the Director of Education for Japan and the Asia-Pacific at Google for Education, statted that, “We’re thrilled to be a part of TechPath initiative, bringing the magic of Chromebooks to students all over the Maldives.”
“Chromebooks are powerful, yet easy to use, allowing the youth to focus on what’s really important – learning and exploring their passions.”