Minister of Higher Education Dr. Ibrahim Hassan has stated the government’s expenditure on higher education and training has not changed despite the COVID-19 situation.
Speaking at a webinar titled “SDG Focus – Higher Education in South Asia”, Minister Ibrahim Hassan noted the right to education is a fundamental right which must be provided to every citizen without discrimination. He added creating an educated generation is crucial towards establishing a strong and responsible society.
Noting higher education is one of the main focus areas of the government under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), the minister said the government has been undertaking important efforts to facilitate higher education and training opportunities for the country’s youth. As such, he highlighted the First Degree Grant Scheme, government scholarships and student loans which have continued without interruption despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted the state expenditure on higher education and training has not changed despite the economic and financial implications of the pandemic.
The higher education minister further revealed over 6,500 individuals were provided a moratorium on the repayment of their student loans due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He added the government has also recently opened the largest student loan scheme in the Maldives, with 770 slots allocated under the loan scheme.
Speaking further, Minister Ibrahim Hassan highlighted the importance of capacity-building in different sectors in the efforts to diversify the economy. He called on all participating countries in the webinar to work together in facilitating opportunities for young people in the region to develop their skills and talents.