A recent audit by the Auditor General’s Office has put the Maldives’ Free‑Degree Programme under the spotlight, showing that the government spent roughly USD 54.2 million 2019 and 2024.
The audit details annual outlays that steadily rose from USD 5.5 million in 2019 to a peak of USD 10.6 million in both 2022 and 2023, before slipping to USD 9.8 million in 2024.
Over the six‑year period the scheme attracted 19,265 applications, of which 16,388 candidates were granted study placements. However, the audit points out a critical shortfall— the Ministry failed to keep reliable records of how many participants actually completed their bachelor’s degrees. Moreover, USD 1.23 million was spent on 790 students who never graduated, and USD 600,0000 was allocated to 271 applicants who already held a degree, raising questions about eligibility vetting.
The report also highlights that the programme’s reach into sectors heavily reliant on foreign labour remains limited, while popular vocational tracks for male students were omitted from funding. Out‑of‑pocket costs for beneficiaries have surged, with the share of programmes requiring students to pay more than USD 3,891 climbing from 15 percent to 46 percent during the audit window.
In response, the Auditor General has recommended establishing a comprehensive tracking system for enrolments and drop‑outs, recovering funds from non‑completers, refocusing the scheme toward high‑need fields, and incorporating vocational training options.