O'level exams have begun today, with over 8,000 students sitting for the exams across the country. 

The O'level exams will continue until November 12, with a total of 8,111 students sitting for the exams in this batch. Meanwhile, 7,776 students are sitting for the SSC exams. 

The Ministry of Education said today that 3,222 students are sitting for the iGCSE exams and 2,869 students for the SSC exams in the Male' region. 

Across the islands, 4,889 students are sitting for the iGCSE exams, and 4,907 for the SSC exams. 

Examinations are being held at 267 centres, including 25 in the Male' area and 242 across the atolls. 

In an interview with State TV today, Education Minister Dr Ismail Shafeeu expressed confidence that students are well prepared for the exams, and urged parents to refrain from pressuring students too much during the exams to avoid causing stress. 

"I advise students to start each day with Fajr prayers, pray for guidance from Allah before your exams, and start the paper with Bismillah. Express your hopes for good grades in your prayers to Allah. I wish all students to have successful, joyous and easy exams," the minister said. 

Last year, Maldivian students achieved exemplary results at both national and global levels.