The Government of India has provided a grant of USD300,000 to establish special education needs (SEN) classrooms in three schools.
The amount was provided as part of the Indian Grant Project on Strengthening Inclusive Education Support Units in order to establish SEN classrooms in Haa Alifu Atoll Education Centre in Dhidhdhoo, Aboobakuru School in Thinadhoo, Gaafu Alifu Atoll, and Ihadhdhoo School in Gan, Laamu Atoll. The project includes developing the infrastructure of the schools and providing the necessary human resources and equipment needed for the SEN classrooms.
The grant project was launched at a special ceremony at Haa Alifu Atoll Education Centre. Those in attendance included the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives Munu Mahawar, Minister of State for Education Dr. Abdulla Rasheed, and officials from the High Commission of India, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Speaking at the ceremony, State Minister Rasheed said India has provided assistance to develop numerous sectors in the Maldives, and that the neighbouring country has assisted in developing infrastructure in the education sector and providing teachers. He expressed hope that India will continue providing assistance, especially in establishing more SEN classrooms in the Maldives.
The Indian government previously provided grant assistance to build the Fehendhoo-Goidhoo Student Ferry and provided equipment and resources to build 67 children’s parks. Around 45 high-impact community development projects have been funded with the USD17 million grant assistance provided by India, and 20 of the projects have been completed.