Ministry of Finance has issued an announcement seeking contractors to develop junior colleges in different regions across the Maldives.
The announcement states the government is seeking parties to develop junior colleges in Kendhikulhudhoo, Noonu Atoll and Dhihdhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll, as well as a Maldives Polytechnic centre in Thulusdhoo, Kaafu Atoll and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres in Fuvahmulah City, Kulhudhuffushi City and Alifushi, Raa Atoll. The finance ministry said the projects will be carried out under “Build, Finance and Operate” public-private partnerships.
The finance ministry called on interested parties to express its interest before September 30. The Terms of Reference (ToR) for the projects will be available from the website of the finance ministry on September 5. Companies shortlisted after expressing interest would be allowed to submit its proposals for the projects.
The junior college project is carried out under the new educational model introduced by the Ministry of Higher Education. Colleges developed under the new model will focus on foundation courses for students aged between 16 and 21, who have completed their O’Level examinations. The courses conducted by junior colleges would have a duration of two years.
Meanwhile, the aim of establishing TVET centres is facilitating the development of a wide range of skills, and training individuals for the needs of the employment market. The government aims to establish the TVET centres as higher education and training hubs in the atolls, where people from nearby islands are also provided an opportunity to acquire training.