Parliament summons ministry over delayed student loan payments

The Economic Committee of Parliament summoned officials from the Higher Education Ministry on Tuesday regarding delays in the disbursement of government-sponsored loan payments for Maldivian students studying abroad.

The ministry stated that MVR 36 million in student payments remains outstanding.

During the committee meeting, members raised concerns about students not knowing when their tuition fees would be processed. Some students have reported receiving warnings from their institutions that their results may be withheld due to unpaid fees.

Higher Education Minister Dr Ali Haider stated that delays in payment are often due to incomplete applications or missing information. He outlined the payment process, explaining that the ministry processes the required documents before sending them to the Ministry of Finance, which then releases the funds. If all information is complete, payments are usually made within a week.

State Minister for Finance Abdul Raheem Hassan, when asked whether the Ministry of Finance had withheld payments due to a lack of funds, said he was not aware of such a situation. However, he stated that he did not believe student payments would be suspended due to financial constraints. He pointed to President Mohamed Muizzu’s decision last year to provide loans to all eligible students despite economic challenges.

According to the Higher Education Ministry:

Nilandhoo MP Fatimath Sauda suggested that a mechanism be established to inform students of payment timelines to prevent prolonged delays. Ministry officials stated that an automated system is being developed to resolve these issues.

Permanent Secretary Aishath Hikma noted that the government has introduced changes to improve communication, including the use of short codes for information services. However, some students continue to call outdated numbers. She urged students to use the new helpline (1474) for assistance.