President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced the administration’s decision to extend loan offers to 1,225 students that have met the eligibility criteria for loans. He made the announcement while speaking at the Top Achievers Award 2021-2022, honouring students with the highest scores at the higher secondary examinations. He was joined by First Lady Fazna Ahmed and Vice President Faisal Naseem at the ceremony in Dharubaaruge convention centre.
Addressing the ceremony, President Solih highlighted the significant advancements made this year in the administration's loan allocation process for individuals seeking to pursue higher education programmes within the Maldives and abroad. He said the administration places great emphasis on providing higher education opportunities as a key priority in its efforts to foster the development of responsible and productive citizens and youth for the betterment of society.
Additionally, President Solih stated that the administration intends to extend loan offers to 1,225 students that have met the eligibility criteria for the loans. He emphasised that the administration would investigate the situation and take measures to ensure that students can avail themselves of the benefits of the student loan programmme in the event an eligible student is unable to secure a student loan. He added that the Ministry of Higher Education would issue additional details about the student loan initiative soon.
Furthermore, President Solih underscored the administration's commitment to providing skills development opportunities to youth, recognising their significant role in fostering national development. He added that the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) has provided such opportunities to 665 youth.
Moreoever, President Solih also extended his congratulations to the remarkable achievements of students who completed their higher secondary examinations, even amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasised that their accomplishments serve as a renewed beacon of hope for the country's future and highlighted the administration's commitment to providing various other higher education opportunities to further support the educational aspirations of students.
During the ceremony, President Solih presented awards to students who secured first place in the higher secondary examinations, while the First Lady Fazna presented awards to students who secured second place. Vice President Naseem recognised top achievers in their respective subject categories, commending their outstanding placements from second to tenth globally.
Of the 2,849 candidates who participated in the higher secondary examinations last year, 445 students attained positions in the national top 10 rankings. Among them, 20 students achieved top 10 rankings globally across different subject categories, with six students securing first place in the world rankings.