English Language Classes
Dhivehi is the national language of the Maldives, but English is the preferred language among youth, businesses and other establishments across the country. While the literacy rate for the adult female population is 98.84% in the Maldives, a large percentage of the mid to senior aged demographic still face challenges adapting to this dual language society.
Many Hospitals and clinics across the islands employ foreign medical staff and often require translators to diagnose patients. Despite some practitioners picking up a few words in Dhivehi, communication still remains a problem particularly for seniors. This language barrier erodes their agency to advocate for their own needs in a system that has moved on without consideration for their dignity and privacy in these settings.
Most grandchildren these days communicate in dual language with their grandparents so it becomes a necessary bridge to cross in order to bond with them and enter their world. Understanding a global language gives them to confidence to explore the world independently as they travel and lean in to new cultures.
Some of our members are entrepreneurs, dabbling in catering, handicraft and sewing businesses. The additional language skills not only help to expand their small businesses but also gives them a renewed sense of confidence to compete in the micro-economy within the islands and open up to tourists as well.
With due consideration MWA runs a free English class with qualified volunteer teachers. For many of the women who attend our classes it is not only a step towards learning a new language but also a time to socialize and enjoy the company of other interesting women outside their busy lives.