The People’s Majlis has invited public comment on a proposed amendment to the Education Act that would create a statutory framework for homeschooling.
The bill, introduced by Huraa MP Dr Anara Naeem on behalf of the government, was accepted for consideration. Comments can be sent by email to legal+sub1@majlis.gov.mv or in writing to the Parliament Secretariat until 2pm on 12 November.
Under the draft, a child of compulsory school age could receive education at home if unable to attend school because of a physical disability, mental-health condition or other special circumstance. Parents or guardians would need to demonstrate financial capacity to provide the programme, and the child would remain registered at a school in the formal system.
The Ministry of Education would set standards for tutors, track outcomes and oversee curriculum. Children whose conditions prevent participation in either school or structured homeschooling could be exempted from compulsory education.
During debate, some MPs raised concerns that the financial-capacity requirement could create a two-tier system and that inadequate safeguards might increase the number of children outside formal education. The government has said the amendment strengthens an existing regulatory provision.
