Key Competencies Dhivehi Access

Author: [Institutional/Academic Name] Date: [Current Date] Subject: Dhivehi Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, Curriculum Pedagogy 1. Abstract The Dhivehi language, an Indo-Aryan language with a unique Thaana script, is the bedrock of Maldivian identity, culture, and governance. As the Maldives navigates rapid globalization, digital transformation, and climate change, the definition of "competency" in Dhivehi has evolved beyond basic literacy. This paper identifies five key competencies for Dhivehi speakers in the 21st century: Orthographic Precision (Thaana Literacy), Oratory & Rhetoric (Raiyythunge Bas), Digital Transliteration, Cross-Linguistic Mediation (English-Dhivehi Code-Switching), and Cultural Lexical Preservation. For each competency, the paper outlines sub-skills, assessment criteria, and pedagogical implications for the Maldivian education system (Key Stages 1–3 and Higher Secondary). 2. Introduction In the Maldivian National Curriculum Framework (NCF), key competencies are defined as the “integrated knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values” necessary for learners to lead successful lives. While English is the medium of instruction for STEM subjects, Dhivehi remains the language of social cohesion, Islamic studies, and national heritage.

However, a gap exists: students often demonstrate high fluency in conversational Dhivehi but low competency in formal writing (e.g., writing official letters to Atoll Offices ) or in reading classical Fanditha manuscripts. Therefore, this paper delineates five measurable key competencies. Competency 1: Orthographic Precision (Thaana Literacy) Definition: The ability to accurately produce, recognize, and sequence the 24 Thaana consonants (with diacritical marks - fili ) and the 11 Arabic-derived letters for loanwords. key competencies dhivehi