The Ministry of Education, in partnership with the National Institute of Education (NIE) and Soneva Namoona, recently concluded a two-day workshop in Dharavandhoo. The event, which took place yesterday, aimed to train 42 teachers from 15 schools across Baa and Noonu Atolls. This training, part of the Atoll Education Development Project (AEDP) supported by the World Bank, focused on equipping educators with the skills needed to implement the Fehi Madharusa framework in their schools. The initiative reflects a broader national push to strengthen environmental education in local curricula.

Expanding the Fehi Madharusa Programme

Launched in 2022 as a collaboration between the Ministry of Education, NIE, and Soneva Namoona, the Fehi Madharusa framework encourages schools throughout the Maldives to become more environmentally conscious and climate-resilient. The framework aligns with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) and emphasizes promoting sustainable practices and instilling environmental values in students. Consequently, it offers Maldives schools a comprehensive and structured approach to sustainable education.

“Environmental education is essential to building a sustainable future, said Gulfishan Shafeeu, Senior Curriculum Development Analyst at NIE. “Through the Fehi Madharusa framework, we’re empowering schools and teachers to lead this transformation—nurturing a generation that values and protects our environment.”

As a result of the workshop, the Fehi Madharusa programme expanded by adding 15 new schools, thus bringing the total number of participating schools to 62 nationwide. These newly involved schools are located on the islands of B. Goidhoo, B. Fehendhoo, B. Hithaadhoo, B. Thulhaadhoo, B. Eydhafushi, B. Maalhos, B. Dharavandhoo, B. Dhonfanu, B. Kihaadhoo, B. Kamadhoo, B. Kudarikilu, B. Kendhoo, N. Magoodhoo, N. Lhohi, and N. Kudafari.

Interactive Learning and Collaboration

The training sessions included interactive workshops, peer learning opportunities, and practical exercises focused on integrating eco-literacy into teaching. Furthermore, teachers collaborated to explore ways to tailor the Fehi Madharusa milestones to fit the unique needs of their schools and communities. In addition, this collaborative environment provided educators with valuable insights and actionable strategies for implementing sustainable practices.

Azhoora Ahmed, Inspire Manager at Soneva Namoona, shared her perspective on the framework: FehiMadharusa is not just a framework—it’s a vision for transforming schools into nurturing grounds for environmental stewardship. This workshop equips teachers to lead this change of shaping a generation that places sustainability at the centre of everyday learning and living.”

Moreover, the workshop highlighted the broader impact of environmental education in shaping the future. Given that the Maldives has committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, this initiative plays a crucial role in supporting that goal.

Teachers’ Commitment to Change

Shiuna Shareef, a teacher from B. Maalhos School, expressed her enthusiasm for the programme:

“Starting a Fehi Madharusa isn’t just about eco-friendly buildings or solar panels. It’s about planting the seeds of awareness and compassion in our students. As a teacher, I believe this is where true change begins. With young minds learning to love and protect the world around them. The TOT program for Fehi Madharusaa has truly inspired me. And I’m filled with hope and excitement to bring these changes into our school and be part of something bigger than a classroom. It’s a movement for a better future.”

This workshop represents a significant step toward building a nationwide movement for environmental education in the Maldives and helps cultivate a generation that values sustainability as part of everyday life. As such, it has the potential to create lasting change within both the educational system and the broader community.