Teachers who were sacked over donning the face veil 'niqab' have been reinstated, announced Minister of Education Dr Aishath Ali.
Speaking on a television programme on January 13, Dr Aishath Ali stated that she did not believe that a specific dress code was a valid reason to dismiss teachers.
A number of teachers lost their jobs because of donning the face veil during former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s administration, sparking much controversy and backlash against the government.
However, his successor President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih pledged during his campaign to reinstate those who were sacked unjustly.
According to the Education Minister, individuals who filed complaints regarding their dismissal have been reinstated, though she did not mention the number of people.
“Jobs in school will be open whether you wear a face veil or not,” she said. “We have solved the issues that were presented to us, we have thus reinstated the jobs that were lost. Furthermore, we have enabled the opportunity to apply for jobs for those who are wearing the face veil as well.”
However, the minister noted that there are still regulations teachers must follow. She stated that children must know the identity of their teachers and stressed the importance of teachers' facial expressions for learners.
“We have facilitated ways for teachers with face veils to teach in class. They have expressed gratitude regarding our decision,” said the Education Minister.
The niqab is one of the coverings worn by Muslim women, which veils the face but leaves the area around the eyes clear. The 'hijab' is a headscarf which covers the head and neck but leaves the face clear, while the 'burka' is a one-piece veil that covers the face and body.
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