President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reinstated No. 9 Rosemont Avenue in London as an accommodation block and student hub for Maldivian students pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom.
For years, Maldivian students relied on Rosemont Avenue as both a residential facility and a communal gathering space. That changed in 2019 when the Maldives' High Commission repurposed the property for diplomatic use. The building has now been formally registered under the Maldivian Students' Association-UK (MSA-UK), the President's Office has said, reinstating the property to its original purpose as a dedicated space for housing and community engagement.
Highlighting the reinstatement of the London facility, President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of Maldivian students in the UK. This government-owned property, he said, has long been recognised as an essential resource for Maldivians pursuing higher education in the UK.
During a meeting with Maldivian students, President Dr Muizzu elaborated on the historical significance of Rosemont Avenue, describing its enduring role as a vital accommodation hub for Maldivian students in the UK. He highlighted its legacy as a cornerstone of student life, offering both lodging and a space for communal meetings and social gatherings across generations, including during his own academic years.
The president underscored the building's historical significance, detailing its pivotal role under the MSA-UK as both a residence and a centre for student activities. He highlighted its function in fostering connections between Maldivian students in the UK and those at home, enabling cross-border engagement through thoughtfully curated events and initiatives.
Recognising that the facility had not been accessible to students, President Dr Muizzu explained, "I recently learnt that the building had been unavailable to students for several years. One of my earliest priorities upon assuming office was to restore it for their use."
The reinstated facility, now registered under MSA-UK management, is expected to provide affordable, temporary accommodation, as the president hoped. "With this reinstatement, I envision Rosemont Avenue easing financial burdens while fostering community and convenience for students," President Dr Muizzu added.
He further characterised this decision as a step towards bolstering social cohesion and enhancing the overall well-being of Maldivian students in the UK. He expressed confidence in MSA’s management, anticipating smoother operations under its stewardship.
The discussion also offered students a platform to raise concerns about academic pressures and living conditions. The president pledged his administration's commitment to addressing these challenges, reaffirming his dedication to supporting Maldivians studying overseas.
Government officials have framed the reinstatement of Rosemont Avenue as part of a broader effort to safeguard student well-being. The initiative, according to a statement by the President's Office, provides a reliable space for social and academic interactions, strengthening connections within the Maldivian student community.
The decision came as President Dr Muizzu attended the ceremonial launch of a tourism promotion campaign between Liverpool Football Club (LFC) and the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), an initiative designed to boost the Maldives' profile as a leading global travel destination.