Parliament, on Tuesday, approved the revised mandates for three key ministries, following a proposal submitted by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The affected ministries are the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology, and the Ministry of Health. The Government Oversight Committee conducted a thorough review of President Dr Muizzu's proposal before the mandates received parliamentary endorsement.
The higher education ministry's revised mandate includes all aspects of higher education and training. This encompasses expanding educational opportunities, regulating and providing financial assistance, covering all aspects of the Maldives National Qualifications Framework, and ensuring occupational health and safety.
Similarly, the updated mandate for the homeland security ministry focuses on ensuring homeland security, maintaining peace and domestic security, combating crime, and overseeing individuals in state custody. Responsibilities also cover immigration, enforcement of policies regarding migrant workers, oversight of juvenile delinquents, combating the trafficking and use of narcotic substances, and managing national registration and population data.
Equally important, the health ministry's revised mandate prioritises the health of all citizens. It includes the regulation of healthcare institutions and professionals, ensuring the safety of food, medicine, and other pharmaceutical products, and maintaining the provision of safe blood supplies. Additionally, the ministry is tasked with overseeing care for individuals in state institutions, particularly those with disabilities.