Minister of Education Priya Manickchand has confirmed that schools across the country will not reopen on the initially scheduled date of September 1, 2025, as the day has been designated for General and Regional Elections.
Speaking on the sidelines of an event on Tuesday, Manickchand told reporters that the decision to delay the reopening of schools is due to the long-standing practice of using school buildings as polling stations.
“Schools are usually used for polling places,” she explained. “Election is one day in our country, and it’s an important day to reinforce and refresh our democracy.”
Manickchand assured that a revised reopening date will be announced soon and that the Ministry is already making the necessary adjustments.
“We are happy to give up the schools for that important purpose of allowing people to exercise their will,” she said.
Meanwhile, the new term was initially expected to begin on September 1, but that date was officially announced as Election Day by President Dr. Irfaan Ali during his Independence Day address on May 26.
In addition to schools, Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) offices will also be used as polling stations.
While the delay may raise concerns about the school calendar, Minister Manickchand noted that this is not the first time elections have coincided with the academic schedule.
She recalled instances where national examinations were successfully held just a day after elections in previous years and said similar preparations will be made to ensure minimal disruption this time around.
