A total of 100 students have been granted full scholarships to pursue training in professional accountancy, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to build local capacity in key sectors of the economy.
The scholarships were officially awarded during a ceremony held at the Central Auditorium of Maldives National University (MNU), where Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed handed over the awards. The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Maldives (ICAM), which is also providing technical support for the programme.
In his address, Minister Haidar emphasised the importance of reducing the country’s dependence on foreign professionals, particularly in fields such as accountancy.
“Developing homegrown talent in areas where we have historically depended on expatriates is a long-term investment in the nation’s future,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted a growing concern: despite the government offering numerous scholarship opportunities in recent years, a significant number of recipients fail to complete their programmes. He called on the newly selected students to remain committed and make the most of this opportunity.
Recipients of the scholarship expressed their appreciation, stating that the opportunity will open doors for future career advancement and help them contribute more meaningfully to the national economy.
ICAM, which plays a key role in the development of the local accountancy sector, noted that more than 500 scholarships have been offered for accountancy training over the past few years, with this year’s cohort marking another major step in that effort.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the government to equip young Maldivians with skills that match the country’s growing economic and professional needs.
