MVR 222m disbursed for govt scholarship students last year

The Ministry of Higher Education said on Monday that MVR 222 million was disbursed last year to students studying under government scholarship programmes.

The ministry released figures on social media detailing funds disbursed for scholarships and loan schemes for students studying in the Maldives and abroad.

According to the data, a total of MVR 471 million was allocated for scholarship students during the 2024–2025 period. Of this amount, MVR 222 million was disbursed last year alone.

Under higher education loan schemes, MVR 1.2 billion has been disbursed to date, with MVR 548 million paid out last year.

The ministry said government scholarships were awarded to 205 students last year, while 180 students graduated under the scholarship schemes during the same period. A total of 390 students received scholarship placements last year.

At present, 602 students are studying under government scholarship schemes across 20 countries. This includes 214 male students and 388 female students.

Under the higher education loan scheme, 596 students began their studies last year, while 660 students graduated under the scheme. Although 500 loan opportunities were announced last year, a total of 862 students were granted access to the scheme.

Currently, 1,740 students are studying under the loan scheme in 36 countries, including the Maldives. Of these, 668 are male students and 1,072 are female students.

The ministry acknowledged that there have been complaints regarding delays in the payment of stipends and tuition fees for students studying abroad under government scholarship and loan schemes.