Education Minister Ismail Shafiu has stated that the percentage of students studying A Levels has increased to 49%.

In an interview given to Public Media, the Minister said that the number of students studying in higher secondary has increased from 32% to 49%.

"In 2023, about 32% of O Level graduates started studying A Levels. However, with increased awareness and interest from students, 49% of O Level graduates have started studying A Levels this year. This is very encouraging," Minister Shafiu said.

Highlighting this as a significant improvement, Shafiu said that in 2023, out of 6,700 students who completed O Levels, only 2,100 students wanted to study A Levels.

However, this has now changed, with 3,200 students starting A Levels out of the 6,500 students who completed O Levels this time.

"This time, A Level studies have started in 13 additional schools. There are now 66 schools in the Maldives that teach A Levels. Previously, A Levels were not seen as very important. But now that perception has changed. Higher secondary is important not just for academic studies, but also for preparing students for the job market, developing communication skills, and greatly preparing students for general life," the Minister said.

He added that these aspects become apparent in university stages, when working in a company, or even when doing independent work in life, as the skills, knowledge, and education needed are gained during the higher secondary stage.

Minister Shafiu advised students to listen to their teachers, respect them, and continue their studies while adhering to the rules and principles set in schools.