The government will soon announce 45 full scholarships to students pursuing higher studies in fisheries management from the Maldives College for Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu revealed Thursday.
The establishment of a college or a learning centre on fisheries by the government is mandated by law, despite not being implemented previously. However, within the first 100 days of the current Administration, efforts to develop the Fisheries College began before establishing the Maldives College for Fisheries and Ocean Sciences under the Maldives National University (MNU).
Speaking during the fourth episode of the ‘Rayyithunnaa Eku’ podcast, President Dr Muizzu outlined his Administration’s plans for long-term capacity building in the fisheries sector.
The President revealed that 45 students pursuing Bachelor's degrees in fisheries management will be afforded full scholarships from the fisheries college with additional specialised training opportunities planned in related fields.
"We will continue to offer full scholarships for Bachelor of Fisheries Management from the college. All preparations have been made now. With the budget we have allocated, we are expecting to offer scholarships to 45 students. There will also be more smaller courses,” he said.
President Dr Muizzu hailed the establishment of the college as a major step towards human resource capacity building in the fisheries sector, adding that the government is already working to find more scholarship opportunities for local students.
Meanwhile, an agreement has been signed to develop an outreach center in Kolamaafushi, Gaafu Alifu Atoll. The outreach center, which will cover a total area of 15,000 acres, will provide research, practical experience for students on international standards. According to MNU, the project will also bring significant economic, social and environmental benefits to the fisheries sector in Kolamaafushi and the entire country.