The quality of education in the Maldives has come under scrutiny once again, following the recent decision by the Maldives Qualifications Authority (MQA) to lift temporary restrictions on an educational institution after it rectified several violations of accreditation regulations. While the specific institution has addressed the issues flagged by MQA, the situation highlights a recurring problem: the acceptance of substandard educational practices and the subsequent impact on the country’s workforce and economy.
Impact on the Hiring Pool and Workforce Quality
The standard of education in any nation significantly shapes its workforce. When educational institutions fail to meet minimum quality benchmarks, it inevitably affects the hiring pool, leading to a workforce that may lack essential skills and competencies. In the Maldives, concerns have been raised about the declining quality of education, particularly in private colleges that have, at times, prioritised profit over pedagogy. These practices not only compromise the learning experience but also risk producing graduates who are underprepared for the job market.
Employers, both in the private and public sectors, often find themselves grappling with a pool of candidates whose qualifications may not fully meet industry standards. This scenario has long-term implications, affecting productivity, innovation, and the overall competitiveness of the Maldivian economy. When businesses cannot rely on the local labour market to fill critical roles, they are forced to invest additional resources in training or to look beyond the country’s borders, which can increase costs and reduce local employment opportunities.
The Economic Cost of Low-Quality Education
Low-quality education does not only affect the hiring pool; it also impacts economic development. A report by UNESCO has shown that countries with poor educational standards often face slower economic growth, as education is a critical factor in human capital development. The Maldivian economy, heavily reliant on sectors such as tourism and fisheries, requires a skilled workforce to innovate and adapt in a rapidly changing global market. Substandard education limits the ability of local talent to drive growth in these sectors, thereby stifling potential economic advancement.
Moreover, when educational institutions do not adhere to accreditation standards, the value of qualifications diminishes. This situation leads to a mismatch between the skills taught and the skills required by employers. It results in higher unemployment rates among graduates, increased underemployment, and the perpetuation of a cycle where higher education does not equate to higher employability.
The Normalisation of Substandard Education
In recent years, the Maldives has seen several cases where educational institutions have been found lacking in compliance with the National Qualifications Framework and program accreditation standards. Issues such as non-payment of salaries to lecturers, delays in marking examination papers, and conducting courses without the requisite approval have raised questions about oversight and governance within the education sector.
A recent audit by MQA on an institution uncovered multiple violations of accreditation regulations. These included practices that extended the duration of programs unnecessarily and increased costs for students. Such findings are alarming, as they point to systemic issues where regulations and standards are not strictly enforced, allowing institutions to operate without the necessary checks and balances.
Unfortunately, this has been a recurring theme in the Maldivian education sector. Rather than fostering an environment of continuous improvement, the lack of stringent regulatory enforcement has led to a culture of complacency where substandard practices are normalised. For a country aiming for socio-economic development, this is a concerning trend that requires immediate and sustained attention.
Moving Forward: Strengthening Oversight and Accountability
To ensure that the education sector contributes positively to the economy, there needs to be a more robust system of accountability and oversight. Regulatory bodies like MQA must be empowered not only to enforce standards but to take proactive measures to prevent such lapses. This includes regular audits, surprise inspections, and a transparent mechanism for reporting and addressing grievances.
Additionally, there should be an emphasis on aligning educational programs with industry needs. In collaboration with employers and industry leaders, educational institutions must be encouraged to develop curricula that equip students with practical skills and knowledge relevant to the job market. By fostering a more symbiotic relationship between education providers and employers, the Maldives can better prepare its youth for meaningful employment.
The recent lifting of temporary restrictions on an educational institution by MQA may appear to be a step towards resolving specific regulatory issues. However, it also serves as a reminder of the broader systemic challenges facing the education sector in the Maldives. For the nation to progress and compete in a globalised economy, it is crucial to address these educational shortcomings head-on. Ensuring high standards in education is not just about upholding academic integrity; it is about securing the future of the Maldivian workforce and, ultimately, the economy.
