President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has said that this administration is committed to shaping the next generation of talented and well-educated young individuals through its education policy. President Solih made the remarks speaking at the 2018 O’ Level Top Ten Awards ceremony held this evening at Dharubaaruge.

Congratulating the students on their outstanding accomplishments, President Solih said this administration’s education policy was centred on the development of a productive and responsible generation. He stressed that the primary objective is to ensure inclusive opportunities for all students, paving the way for a future of engaged, thoughtful, respectful, and compassionate citizens.

Highlighting the hard work of parents, guardians, teachers and the school management, President Solih stressed on the need to further enable teachers to acquire better skills, especially the need to address a shortage of proficient primary grade teachers. He assured that the administration was committed to addressing this issue, and strengthen this cornerstone which will drive students towards even higher objectives in the international stage.

President Solih further emphasised that the triumphs of the 407 students who have emerged with flying colours at the 2018 Cambridge O’ Level examinations; students who have endeavoured in the international stage with thousands of others from over 150 different countries and nationalities. He went on to applaud the top ten achievers, noting the success they have earned was never an easy feat.

The President urged the students to strive to attain higher goals as they embark on their journey in higher secondary and university education. He implored all students to persevere in the face of challenges that lie ahead as they work towards becoming responsible and constructive citizens.

Addressing parents and guardians, President Solih advised them to encourage their children to follow a career path of their choosing—which he noted would be more beneficial for their families and to the nation—and to stand steadfast in facilitating their children's decisions. The President also advised the students to remain unwavering in the path of religion and to never cease to honour their Maldivian origin.

During the event, President Solih presented awards and certificates to students who achieved first place at the 2018 Cambridge O’ Level examinations. Vice President Faisal Naseem also attended the function, giving away awards and certificates to students who won first place in individual subjects.

A total of 6,600 Maldivian students completed their O’Level examinations last year, of which 407 students came out as top ten winners.