President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced salary increments for lecturers of up to 59% with the recent revisions made to the wages of higher education sector staff. He made the remarks while speaking at the 71st anniversary function of Hirilandhoo School. He is currently on a visit to Hirilandhoo, Thaa Atoll.
Speaking about the beneficial changes implemented to the wages of teachers and lecturers, President Solih emphasised that an excellent education system is built upon the quality of teachers. He added the salaries of university lecturers would see increments of up to 59% with the changes brought on March 1.
Furthermore, President Solih stated that teachers at the Maldives National University (MNU) who previously earned USD1,224 would now receive approximately USD1,939 without overtime pay. Senior lecturers who previously made USD1,350 would now receive approximately USD2,204 without overtime pay. He revealed that Assistant Professors who previously earned USD1,523 would now receive USD2,550, and Associate Professors who earned USD1,686 would now receive USD2,918.
Salaries of Deans, which were previously at USD1,945, would be increased to USD2,464, Registrars' wages, which were previously USD2,075, would be raised to USD2,723; and Deputy Vice Chancellors' salaries, which were previously at USD2,529, would be increased to USD3,112.
Associate Lecturers under the Vocation Education Professionals category of higher education staff who previously earned USD953 would now receive USD1,686, and lecturers who previously made USD1,102 would now receive USD2,204.
Furthermore, President Solih disclosed that the revisions would benefit 767 employees and cost USD4 million annually. He said implementing the changes would positively impact universities and vocational training centres.
Speaking at the function, President Solih stated that Hirilandhoo School spent the first 52 years of its 71 years as a private schooling institution run by the island's people and emphasised that Maldivians had always prioritised the education of their children.
In response to residents' concerns that the island's development has been largely ignored, President Solih stated that the administration's policies are non-discriminatory and serve all citizens without prejudice. He highlighted the administration's efforts to establish essential services and carry out developmental projects on all islands.
At the function, commemorative plaques were awarded to three staff members of Hirilandhoo School for their extensive years of service to the school. The president was also presented with a special plaque of appreciation from the school management. Hirilandhoo School was established on October 28, 1951.