In academic circles, there is a major debate surrounding standardized tests and whether they are an accurate measure of intelligence. Do they reflect the students’ skills or simply their brain’s ability to memorize a set syllabus? Children are unique with different aptitudes and not all of them would be able to exceed academically. However, with standardized tests, all students are expected to conform to one narrow understanding of intelligence. Such an environment creates an unbalanced dynamic where students who are more adept in, say, math is favored rather than students who may be more skilled at the craftsmanship. There have been efforts made in recent years to provide opportunities for students who may have non-traditional talents. Alas, the changes in the academic world do not reflect the mindset of society.

With the new curriculum that was introduced in the Maldives a few years back, teachers were given the chance to use evaluation techniques other than written examinations for students in Key Stage 3 and below. The responsibilities of testing and re-testing competencies within the students were given to the teachers. Additionally, for the older students, there was the introduction of the B-tech courses which gave students who were academically weak the chance to learn a skill. Such changes were a step in the right direction as to be inclusive of students with different skillsets and provide opportunities for them to succeed in life.

We are now a few years down the line and there is yet to be a significant shift in the mentality of our society at large. The worth of the students is still judged by their academic scores. Also, children who choose B-tech are deemed as less intelligent. Even-though the certificates received upon the completion of B-tech courses are on the same level as O’ Level certificates, this does not deter people from holding one in higher regard than the other.

Such a collective mindset in our society is harmful to our students as they would internalize such ideas causing them to doubt their self-worth. Therefore, we must ensure that there are steps taken to educate the populace and help them accept that students' individuality is something that should be celebrated rather than scorned at. All students deserve an environment where they can choose their path, without any outside pressure. Only then would they be able to flourish in their respective fields and become functioning members of society.

In short, students’ intelligence, abilities, and skills are varied and complex. Likewise, the new curriculum of the Maldives attempts to be inclusive of all students and be mindful of their differences. In theory, this is all well and good, except, in practice, the mentality of the society at hand proves to be a hindrance, as they still have not fully accepted that not all students have to excel academically. For us to be able to realize what has been written down in the curriculum, we must do our part to educate the masses. Once the toxic mindset has been cleared, then we, as a society, can move forward together towards a brighter future for our youth.