Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development Dr. Mariyam Marya has underscored the crucial importance of making the best use of the opportunities to seek higher education, and confront the challenges faced during the journey courageously. The remarks were made by the minister during the information session held for the students who achieved the President's Scholarship and the High Achiever's Scholarship.
Speaking at the information session, Minister Dr. Marya stated that utilising the scholarship opportunity to seek higher education from abroad was a huge step forward. The minister exhorted students to maximize their chances, pointing out that there were several things they needed to consider and prepare for. She noted that students will face numerous challenges, as they will be living alone without the support of their family.
During the session, which was held at the Maldives National University (MNU), students were provided with career guidance and information on the skills which will be highly demanded in the future. These sessions were delivered by two prominent local experts in the field, Dr. Sunny Umar and Mohamed Alim. Additionally, discussions were held with Hawwa Leesh, regarding strategies which can be used to cope with homesickness and other mental issues students may face, with the sudden change in the environment.
Furthermore, three students who sought their higher education from abroad shared their experiences during the session. Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) Fizana Rasheed also provided significant details and information on how to obtain MQA services conveniently and expeditiously.
Among the students who achieved the scholarships, 19 were awarded the presidential scholarship, while 117 students received the High Achiever's Scholarship. For these 136 students, the government will be covering all the expenses incurred for their first degree.