The Maldives Ministry of Education has launched an invitation for local authors to develop textbooks and digital content for the Cambridge International (CIA) curriculum. This initiative is aimed at supporting the national education system, specifically for Key Stage 4 (grades 9 and 10), and aligns with Cambridge’s international examination standards.

Education Minister Dr. Ismail Shafeeu, speaking last week, explained that while the Cambridge International Assessment (CIA) has been administered in the Maldives for 23 years, the necessary textbooks have traditionally been imported. The new project seeks to change this by fostering local talent in writing educational content tailored to the needs of Maldivian students, reducing costs and empowering local authors.

The Ministry encourages interested candidates to submit their proposals for the creation of textbooks and digital materials that meet CIA standards. A key goal is to ensure the materials are both culturally relevant and of high academic quality, while also expanding the country’s book-writing capabilities.

The invitation also serves as an opportunity to reduce the reliance on expensive imported textbooks and encourage a sustainable, local approach to educational publishing. The project aligns with the Maldives’ broader goals within the Commonwealth, where member states prioritize local solutions for education that also contribute to economic growth and cultural development.

Proposals for the project must be submitted by 2:00 pm on February 13th, with all questions and clarifications due by 1:00 pm on the preceding Thursday. This initiative represents a significant step toward increasing self-reliance in the education sector, fostering local expertise, and contributing to the overall development of the nation’s educational resources.

The 17th VIBE Identity Exhibition, launched yesterday at Kolej International Graduate Studies (KIGS) in Brunei, spotlighted a diverse array of final-year projects from students across multiple faculties. The event, which serves as a platform for young creatives, featured a range of works including product design, fashion design, interactive media, music videos, animation, application technology, and entrepreneurial concepts.

The exhibition was officially opened by Acting Director of Museums, Pengiran Haji Rosli bin Pengiran Haji Halus, with KIGS Chief Executive Officer Haji Mahrub bin Haji Murni also in attendance. The event attracted students, faculty, and industry professionals, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and innovation.

In her welcoming speech, Committee Member Francis Mae Catchero Tima-an of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities highlighted that the biannual exhibition not only allows students to showcase their creative talents but also fosters cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaboration. “The VIBE Identity Exhibition serves as a space for students to connect with professionals and one another, encouraging the exchange of ideas and furthering the creative spirit within Brunei’s academic and entrepreneurial communities,” Tima-an said.

As Brunei looks to enhance its position within the Commonwealth as a hub of innovation, this exhibition underscores the importance of nurturing creativity and entrepreneurship in the youth. By providing students with the tools and opportunities to express their ideas, KIGS is contributing to the country’s broader goals of fostering a knowledge-based economy and preparing the next generation of leaders and innovators.

The VIBE Identity Exhibition is expected to become a key event in Brunei’s cultural calendar, with potential to strengthen the island nation’s creative industries within the wider Commonwealth.

Members of Parliament (MPs) in the United Kingdom are set to hold a debate on the United Nations International Day of Education, marking an important occasion to discuss the global state of education and the role of the UK within the Commonwealth. The debate, scheduled by the Backbench Business Committee, will focus on the significance of education in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly in Commonwealth nations where education access and quality remain diverse.

The Backbench Business Committee, which meets weekly on Tuesdays, is tasked with considering debate requests from backbench MPs, offering them a platform to raise issues of national and international importance. With limited time allocated for debates in Parliament, the Committee plays a crucial role in determining which topics take precedence. The United Nations International Day of Education, observed annually on January 24, serves as an important reminder of the need to invest in education as a fundamental right and as a means to empower individuals and communities.

The debate is expected to emphasize the UK’s commitments to global education, particularly in Commonwealth countries where educational disparities persist. Many member states, including small island developing nations and low-income countries in Africa and Asia, face significant challenges in providing quality education for all. The UK’s leadership in international development, including education programs in Commonwealth countries, will be an essential topic of discussion.

The debate aligns with the global push for education as a driver of equity and development, particularly in the Commonwealth, where collaboration on educational initiatives is critical to achieving SDG 4 — ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all. MPs will likely highlight how the UK can further contribute to these goals through aid, partnerships, and diplomatic engagement across the Commonwealth.