The Maldives Qualifications Authority (MQA) is set to introduce a new regulation that mandates a 50 percent pass mark for exams in higher education institutions. MQA CEO Fizana Rasheed shared the news in an interview with local media, explaining that the change is aimed at addressing concerns over students outsourcing their assignments.

Fizana stated that the new rule would help reduce dependency on coursework assignments, curbing the growing issue of students purchasing or having others complete their assignments. The MQA is in the process of finalizing the rule, with plans to gazette it after consultations with higher education leaders in the Maldives.

This initiative comes in the wake of the Ministry of Higher Education recently publishing "Rules on the Procedure for Handling Complaints about Higher Education and Training Institutions." The regulation includes penalties for academic misconduct, such as a fine of MVR 5,000, and requiring institutions to implement policies to address such issues. Additionally, a detailed report on each case must be submitted to the ministry for review.

The move is expected to enhance academic integrity and improve the quality of higher education in the Maldives.