Maldives launches national screening system for developmental disabilities
New tool aims to strengthen early diagnosis and support for children with developmental delays, empowering families and educators to secure timely intervention
MALÉ, Maldives (MNTV) — Maldives has launched a nationwide developmental screening system designed to improve early identification and support for children experiencing developmental delays, marking a significant step toward strengthening disability-inclusive public services in the island nation.
The initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Social and Family Development on Wednesday, establishes a standardized process for tracking childhood developmental milestones and creates a formal referral pathway that connects families, schools, and health services.
The system is expected to expand access to early intervention programs and reduce long delays that have historically prevented children from receiving therapy and specialized care during critical periods of cognitive and social development.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham said the new approach represents an important investment in the country’s future.
She noted that the Developmental Milestone Tracking Form will enable families and teachers to notice developmental differences earlier, facilitating structured and coordinated responses rather than waiting until challenges become severe.
The minister highlighted the Maldives’ progress in public health over recent decades, including major reductions in maternal and infant mortality, and said similar systemic improvements are now needed in disability identification and support so that all children can integrate fully into society.
Officials say the tool aims to empower both parents and educators by simplifying evaluation and referral processes, enabling concerns to be formally documented and directed to appropriate service providers.
The tracking system will also generate national-level data to improve resource planning, capacity building, and policy decisions.
The initiative aligns with broader global efforts to expand early childhood screening and disability inclusion, areas recognized as essential to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Experts globally emphasize that early identification can significantly improve long-term outcomes in education, employment, and quality of life.
Maldives faces rising demand for disability-support services due to increasing diagnosis rates, population growth, and greater public awareness. Advocates have long argued that early intervention remains uneven outside major population centers, with screening often inconsistent across schools and hospitals.
Dr Shiham said true inclusion requires national systems capable of “seeing and responding to the needs of every child from an early age,” adding that the tool is expected to deliver substantial, lasting change for future generations.
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