The National Centre for Cultural Heritage (NCCH) has confirmed a massive interest for its Signature Scholarship, an initiative dedicated to advancing the study of Maldivian heritage and national identity.
This ambitious programme aims to cultivate a new generation of competent historians and researchers, ultimately deepening the body of knowledge surrounding Maldivian heritage.
Following the application deadline on 25 September, the NCCH reported an overwhelming number of applications from young people eager to secure one of the 40 coveted scholarship opportunities.
The Signature Scholarship is a key component of the nation’s push to revitalise national identity, providing full sponsorship for a Masters in Research and Publication program conducted in partnership with the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM). The NCCH will cover all course fees for the successful applicants, underscoring the government’s commitment to scientific study in this crucial field.
The two-year research programme is designed to be rigorous, requiring participants to engage in scientific, in-depth study of specific heritage disciplines. Students will also commit two days per month working directly with the NCCH, gaining practical experience and contributing to the centre’s work. A significant benefit of the programme is the opportunity for participants to publish scientific and research papers, ensuring their contributions become lasting resources for future generations.
This initiative aligns directly with the administration’s core policy objectives. The restoration of Maldivian nationality has been reiterated as a primary pledge of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu since his first presidential statement, where he launched a national project to restore Maldivian nationalism and initially provided opportunities for 50 researchers. The President further prioritised the field of Maldivian nationalism in this year’s statement, pledging continued facilitation of research into heritage.
The 40 Signature Scholarships are viewed as a vital step in executing this national revival project. Recognising the high level of youth engagement, the NCCH issued a statement thanking all those who participated in the application process and invited them to work collaboratively in the sustained cause of reviving Maldivian nationalism.