President promises to resolve delay in financial aid to overseas students

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu provided assurance on Friday that his administration will resolve the delay in student financial aid to Maldivian students studying overseas.

President Muizzu made the promise while addressing Maldivian students residing in the UK who he hosted at a luncheon in Leeds on Friday.

During the luncheon, President Muizzu, who himself attained his higher education in the UK, listened to the challenges the students face and inquired about their wellbeing and academic experiences. He also conveyed assurances of his administration’s commitment to facilitating solutions for the challenges raised.

He stressed that the government has a duty to look after the wellbeing of Maldivian students, no matter where they are.

“Whether its students on scholarships, students on loans or students who are here at their own expense… We will do what we can through the established system,” he said.

President Muizzu said that the welfare of overseas students is a top priority for his administration. He added that the administration has implemented a number of measures to resolve the recent issues with the delay in disbursement of student aid, including loan disbursements and stipend.

“The lack of responsiveness of relevant government institutions is a genuine concern. The delay in response to emails and such. These are systemic issues that I will address. In Sha Allah, I will correct this and improve the efficiency and brings about eases,” he said.

President Muizzu said that he himself understands how important it is that overseas students get their financial aid on time.

He said that the administration will hereafter ensure that disbursements are made on time and that government institutions respond to queries in a timely manner.

“I was here in your shoes a couple of years ago. So, I know. I will get it done,” he said.

During his visit to the UK, President Muizzu reinstated, No. 9 Rosemont Avenue in London as the premises of Maldivian Students’ Association-UK (MSA-UK).

The property which had historically housed Maldivian students and served as a hub to support Maldivian students in the UK was in 2019 repurposed for diplomatic use by the High Commission of Maldives in the United Kingdom. However, effective today, the property has been reinstated as a student accommodation and hub registered under the MSA-UK. This decision aims to enhance student welfare and community ties.