The Education Ministry has announced plans to construct a new school up to Grade 10, along with a dedicated A-level institution, in Hulhumale’ Phase 2, responding to the area’s rapidly growing population.
Education Minister Dr. Ismail Shafeeu revealed in a recent interview with Mihaaru News that the project is set to begin this year, addressing the urgent demand for additional educational facilities in the city’s fastest-growing urban community.
Schools in Hulhumale’ Near Capacity
“Schools in Hulhumale’ are operating near full capacity, and a new school is clearly needed,” Minister Shafeeu said. The concept for the Grade 1–10 school has been finalized and is now in the design phase, with physical construction expected to start by the first quarter of this year at the latest.
Hulhumale’ Phase 2 has experienced rapid population growth, creating immediate pressure on existing institutions. Shaheed Ali School, for example, was originally designed to serve around 1,850 students but now accommodates over 2,000 following the allocation of Fahi flats.
“Next year, we can only take in about 600 new students without exceeding capacity, so short-term needs are manageable,” the minister noted. “But without another school by 2027, we will face serious challenges in accommodating new students in Phase 2.”
Current Enrolment Across Hulhumale’ Schools
Hulhumale’ Phase 1:
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Ghazee School: 1,628 students
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Rehendhi School: 2,416 students
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Huravee School: 2,202 students
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Hulhumale’ CHSE: 1,056 students
Hulhumale’ Phase 2:
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Kaamil Didi Primary School: 1,049 students
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Salahuddin School: 2,560 students
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Shaheed Ali School: 2,179 students
Urgent Need for an A-Level School
Minister Shafeeu emphasized that the demand for higher secondary education is becoming increasingly urgent in Hulhumale’ Phase 2. “Previously, only students passing five subjects were eligible for A-levels, so space was sufficient,” he explained.
However, changes to eligibility rules have increased the number of students pursuing A-levels, putting additional pressure on existing facilities. Currently, there is no dedicated A-level school in Phase 2.
“The new A-level school will be built near the existing Phase 2 schools, providing convenience for students and easing enrolment pressures,” the minister said. While the project has not yet officially launched, Minister Shafeeu confirmed that a specialized A-level institution will be part of the development.
