Students return to school for new academic year

After a month-long holiday, students have returned to schools today as the new academic year begins. 

This time, the end of school holidays were in December as previously. 

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the end of school holidays had been transferred to mid-year. On the request of parents, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu changed the holidays to fall in December once again as has been customary in the Maldives. 

The 2025 academic year concluded on December 25. 

This year, mid the first term mid-term break will be given from May 24 to 30. The first term is set to conclude on July 17. 

The second term then starts on August 2. The end of school holidays this year will begin on December 18, with the 2027 academic year to begin on January 17. 

Studies have resumed today at 219 government schools. 

A total of 80,715 students are enrolled in these schools, from preschool to grade 12. Education Ministry's records indicate that there are 9,952 teachers supporting these students this year. 

Statistics publicized by the ministry last week show that 4,790 students newly enrolled in Grade 1 this year. This includes 3,042 students across the atolls and 1,748 in the Male' area. 

This year, 1,530 students requested transfer from atoll schools to Male' area schools, while 836 students applied for transfers from Male' schools to schools in Hulhumale'. 

Education Minister Dr Ismail Shafeeu stated yesterday that all required books have now been sent to schools, both in Male' and the atolls. He said that all preparations have been completed, and schools are ready for a smooth start to the new academic year.