Higher Education Minister blames students for government's failure to issue stipends

Jan 19, 2026, 12:34 PM
Photo: Adhadhu

Photo: Adhadhu

Higher Education Minister Ali Haidar has blamed students for the government's failure to issue stipends on schedule.

Speaking on a podcast presented by government Spokesperson Heena Waleed, Haidar said it is caused by students' failure to submit documents.

"It reaches that point when we can't get all the relevant documents," Haidar claimed.

He added that more than 75 percent of the students have been paid within the due date over the past four years.

However, some students do not submit the required documents and the payment has been delayed for eight weeks, he said.

This is the second time that the Higher Education Minister has blamed students for the government's failure to issue stipends regularly.

He previously said it was caused by students' failure to complete the required information and documents.

Some students took to social media last year to complain about the government's delay in issuing their stipends.

Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) sent a special report to the ministry last month, asking for solutions to the problems faced by the students.

There are currently 1,740 student loan recipients and 602 scholarship winners.

Meanwhile, Haidar also announced that efforts were underway to review the stipends provided to overseas students on loans and scholarships.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Saudi Ambassador to be dismissed following refusal to join PNC

The Maldivian government is dismissing Ahmed Sareer, the Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, after he refused to join the ruling PNC party. Despite his 40-year diplomatic career, Sareer is being removed as part of a broader directive requiring all diplomats to join the political party, ending a long-standing tradition of neutrality.

Govt to seal Rasmale' deal on Republic Day

The Maldives government plans to sign a definitive agreement with UAE-based Eagle Hills on Republic Day to grant 500 hectares of land for the Rasmalé project. Legislative changes are underway to accommodate the deal, which involves no land acquisition fees. The project chairman confirmed they will comply with all local leasehold laws.

Indian arrested at VIA smuggling MVR 900,000

An Indian national was arrested at Velana International Airport for attempting to smuggle over MVR 900,000 in undeclared foreign currency. The seizure is part of a major government crackdown on illegal dollar trading and unauthorized business activities by foreigners in the Maldives.

Falah accuses Khaleel of prioritising personal gain over nation

PNC leader Ibrahim Falah has accused former Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel of putting personal gain above national interests. The criticism follows Khaleel’s public concerns over the Rasmalé project, which involves land allocation to a UAE firm. Falah claims Khaleel’s opposition proves he no longer prioritizes the country's welfare.

Three arrested in alcohol network bust

Police arrested three individuals and seized a large quantity of alcohol during a raid on a distribution network in Malé. The joint operation targeted a residence in the Henveiru ward after a lengthy investigation. Authorities have identified several key players involved in the city's large-scale illegal alcohol trade.

Resolution demands transparency over Rasmalé deal

MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem submitted a resolution to the People’s Majlis demanding transparency over the Rasmalé development deal with Eagle Hills. The move seeks to disclose commercial terms and ensure legal compliance, following concerns that the government is withholding information about granting land to a foreign entity.

Thilafushi Port: Agreements with Chinese firm classified

Maldives Ports Limited has classified its agreements with China Harbour Engineering Company regarding the Thilafushi Port relocation. Officials refused to disclose contract values or specific details, citing legal consultations. This lack of transparency follows government concerns over foreign influence and diplomatic shifts.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox