Minister of Higher Education Dr. Ibrahim Hassan has stated the ministry is considering the allocation of student loan slots for every island of the Maldives.
Speaking at the parliamentary Committee on National Development and Heritage, Minister Dr. Ibrahim Hassan said allocating slots for each island is a fairer approach than allocating slots for electoral constituencies. The minister said more students will get the opportunity to pursue higher education should the policy be revised to allocate a slot for each island. He said the purpose of allocating slots to islands will also strengthen the decentralisation process in the country.
Detailing that 514 students received loans from 3 categories this year, the minister said the loans had been awarded in accordance with the established policies. He added the loan amounts were also budgeted this year, unlike the previous years.
The higher education minister said the government must also ensure the country receives services from graduates after they complete their programs. He further said if students who complete their secondary education in islands are given a higher education opportunity, the rate of individuals who return to serve their islands will also increase.