Minister of Finance Ibrahim Ameer has stated the government has proposed the largest budget for the education sector so far in the State Budget 2023, which was USD299 million. He made the statement while submitting the proposed state budget to the Parliament of the Maldives.
Speaking at the Parliament, Minister Ameer said building an educated generation is one of the biggest long-term investments made by the government and that efforts are being made to allow each student to achieve a high-quality education without having to travel abroad. As such, he said USD11 million has been allocated for the free degree programme. He also said USD14 million has been allocated to continue providing small-interest loans next year for students studying in higher education with an overall USD56 million to be spent for the high education sector.
Furthermore, Minister Ameer said funds have also been allocated for the development of infrastructure and resources in 142 islands under 195 projects planned for 2023. The projects include the development of 21 schools in the atolls and the development of permanent schools in Hulhumale’ Phase II.
Furthermore, Minister Ameer said that USD41 million has been allocated to harmonise the salaries of education sector employees and that the changes to the salaries of teachers introduced earlier this year have made a lasting positive impact in the education sector in terms of developing and retaining capable and experienced teachers. He noted that it is one aspect of building an educated generation. He added that the government projects and initiatives aim to eliminate the obstacles for the youth to achieve higher education.