The Ministry of Higher Education, Employment, and Skills Development has published the list of students who will receive the government loans intended for higher education, vocational training, and international study opportunities.
The higher education ministry revealed that over a total of 1,709 students submitted applications for the loans while only 1,153 students were eligible. Of these, 1,015 students were selected to be given the loans under the loan scheme.
Speaking at a press conference, Minister of Higher Education, Employment, and Skills Development Dr. Maryam Mariya disclosed that 148 students submitted applications under the loan scheme for pilot studies. However, after observing the capacity of the Maldivian Aviation Academy (MAA) only 10 students who got the highest marks on merit basis were given the opportunity for pilot studies.
Furthermore, the ministry affirmed that the students selected for the loan scheme will be issued sponsorship letters by June 13. The application process for the loans, which began on February 29, concluded on May 2.
Initially, the ministry offered 500 opportunities for student loans, covering studies from diploma to PhD levels. Of these, 370 slots were reserved for students pursuing new fields of study, while the remaining 130 slots were allocated for other categories. However, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu extended student loan eligibility to all qualified students.
Additionally, the ministry has made arrangements for non-selected applicants to review the reasons for their non-selection on the ministry's website. Any inquiries or complaints regarding the list can be submitted within a one-week window through the provided email address: [email protected].
Under the student loan scheme, students have the opportunity to study abroad in any country of their choice, provided their field of study aligns with the National Needs List. This list includes critical sectors such as infrastructure, aviation, and agriculture, as outlined in President Dr. Muizzu's manifesto.