Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has revealed that the first ever medical school in Maldives would be launched next year. With the launch of the new medical school it would pave way for many Maldivians to pursue studies in the medical field without the need to travel abroad, according to the Health Minister.
Addressing a press briefing about the establishment of a medical school in Maldives, Health Minister Abdulla Nazim stated that pre-researches prior to the opening has now been completed. The enrollment procedure would be opened in early 2018, Minister added. The new medical school, which is set to open a facility of the Maldives National University, would initially open enrollment for 50 seats, the minister told reporters.
Currently the administrative works of finalising the modules and course outlets are in the last phase and a coordinator would be elected after talks between Maldives and Pakistan to seal the procedure, the Health Minister said. The students who complete MBBS would receive a globally recognised certificate as the school would provide medical expertise as on par with other foreign institutions, the Minister assured.
Speaking at the press conference, the Ambassador from Pakistan to Maldives Syed Khawar Ali Shah highlighted that the vision behind the collaboration to establish a medical school is to build an international institution to attract not only Maldivians medical students but also to attract students from around the globe. Establishing a medical school was on high priority when he first met President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, according to the Pakistani Ambassador.
Addressing reporters, Vice Chancellor of Maldives National University Dr. Ali Fawaaz Shareef stated that the National University always aspired of operating a medical school. Works of finding qualified teachers and equipment are currently commencing to train the first ever MBBS batch of Maldives under MNU, the Vice Chancellor added.
The medical school is established under a grant aid of USD 5 million from Pakistan. In addition, Ministry of Health revealed that the government of Pakistan has also provided laboratory equipment and specialised teachers. To develop the medical school at a fast pace, collaborative works has been exerted by the Ministry of Health, Maldives National University (MNU), Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), Ministry of Education, Maldives Qualifications Authority (MQA) and Maldives Medical and Dental Council members. With the establishment of the new medical school, the number of Maldivian students traveling abroad to attain higher education in the medical field is expected to decline.