The government has cautioned against imposing broad restrictions on online education, warning that such measures could limit access to higher education and undermine opportunities for Maldivians living outside major population centers.
State Minister for Education, Higher Education and Skills Development Ahmed Shafeeu made the remarks during a meeting with Parliamentary Secondary Legislation Committee, where the regulation and future of online and blended learning were discussed.
Shafeeu said completely restricting online learning would be counterproductive, particularly given the geographical realities of the Maldives. With communities dispersed across numerous islands and physical higher education institutions concentrated in a limited number of locations, online programmes provide an important alternative for students who may otherwise struggle to access diploma and degree courses.
He argued that the education sector should adapt alongside broader technological developments taking place across the economy. Maldivians are increasingly using digital platforms to access services such as banking and healthcare, and similar technology could be used to expand access to education.
According to Shafeeu, providing more Maldivians opportunities to obtain recognized qualifications through online and distance-learning programmes could contribute to the country’s human capital development and help expand the pool of skilled workers.
He also highlighted operational benefits associated with digital education. Online systems can make it easier for institutions and regulators to monitor student participation, track teaching activities and maintain records of interactions between students and instructors.
However, Shafeeu stressed that greater flexibility in how education is delivered should not result in weaker academic standards. Students completing online programmes must demonstrate the required competencies before receiving their qualifications, while relevant authorities are responsible for monitoring programme quality and ensuring institutions comply with established requirements.
The government is also working to revise existing guidelines governing online and blended learning, with the aim of bringing the regulatory framework in line with international practices while taking into account the Maldives’ geographical and educational needs.
The issue has broader implications for the Maldives’ higher education and workforce development sectors, as tighter restrictions on online programmes could affect both education providers and students seeking qualifications without relocating to Male’ or other islands with established campuses.