Beginning Of Academic Year Moved To August Permanently

During a press conference held by the Ministry of Education today, it was confirmed that the academic new year will now begin on every August.

Prior to this, the academic new year began on every January – but major changes were brought to the academic calendar last year consequent to the COVID-19 pandemic to accommodate the difficulties faced by the students in continuing their studies amidst the pandemic. As a result, the academic new year was set to begin this year on 10^th August – whereas the change will be permanent. Thus, the annual school holidays will now begin in late-June or July whereas a two to three-week holiday will be added to the mid-term break scheduled for students in the month of December.

Deputy Minister of Education Ministry, Mr. Ahmed Mujahid noted that the decision was made after intense deliberation with stakeholders. He particularly highlights that this was a request put in by many members of the public when the administration assumed office, especially parents of students who worked in the tourism sector that were unable to spend time with their children during the annual school holidays in December as it is the busiest time for tourism sector workers.

Moreover, this would solve the issue whereas students completing O’levels in October/November would have to wait 6 months to commence their A’levels.