Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development Dr. Mariyam Marya has expressed confidence in seeing a prosperous and successful future generation, following the strategic and strong policies implemented by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The remarks were delivered by the minister during the ceremony held to award the President’s Scholarship and High Achievers' Scholarship.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Dr. Marya stated that the scholarships awarded by the government intends to develop and enhance the knowledge and skills of the youth and build a strong and capable generation to serve the nation. The minister noted that these scholarships are the most prestigious and the most significant scholarships granted to the students from the Maldives. Noting the importance given by the government to facilitating higher education opportunities, she said that President Dr. Muizzu has continuously given many advices and recommendations to make the youth academically capable. She expressed confidence that with these efforts, tangible results will be observed in the near future.
Furthermore, Minister Dr. Marya urged students travelling abroad to seek higher education, to uphold Islamic principles and values. The minister advised the students that no matter what country they seek education, they should always remember that they are Maldivians and must fulfil their duties as a Muslim as well. She highlighted that due to the competition among countries, the knowledge and skills needed for success in the world are advancing at an unprecedented pace. On this stance, she stressed the significance of developing the fundamental work skills, characteristics, and ethics needed to survive in the 21st century.
Underscoring the pivotal role students play in the development and progress of the nation, Minister Dr. Marya urged all students to opt to seek education from the fields which are beneficial for the nation. She additionally requested all students to target to return and serve the nation after completing their higher education abroad.
Among the recipients of the President’s Scholarship and High Achievers' Scholarship, 136 students achieved academic excellence in five subjects in their higher secondary examinations. 19 students were awarded the President’s Scholarship, while an additional 117 students were awarded the High Achievers’ Scholarship for achieving an A or higher grade in their higher secondary examinations, in 2023. A total of 1,407 students partook in the examinations in 2023, from 45 schools across the Maldives.