The People’s Majlis has invited public comment on a proposed amendment to the Education Act that would establish a formal framework for homeschooling in certain cases.
The amendment, sponsored by Huraa MP Dr Anara Naeem on behalf of the government, seeks to permit exemptions from school attendance based on a child’s physical condition, disability or other special circumstances. Feedback can be submitted by email to legal+sub1@majlis.gov.mv or in writing to the Parliament Secretariat until 2:00 pm on 12 November.
Under the proposal, parents or guardians would need to demonstrate the financial capacity to provide home-based education. Children who complete recognised secondary education before the age of 16 would no longer be required to attend school. The Ministry of Education would set standards for tutors, monitor outcomes and oversee curriculum compliance.
The bill passed its first reading with unanimous support from 41 members and was referred to committee. During debate, some opposition MPs raised concerns that a financial-capacity requirement could disadvantage lower-income families and that broader safeguards may be needed to prevent misuse.
Education officials have said the changes aim to strengthen existing arrangements for children who cannot participate in mainstream schooling due to severe disabilities or health conditions. The proposal also addresses registration requirements so that homeschooled children remain within the formal system.
Public submissions will inform the committee’s review before further stages in Parliament.