"Cool School" project not completed by start of new academic year

Jan 27, 2026, 11:06 AM
"Cool School" project not completed by start of new academic year

The "Cool School" project to air-condition all schools in the country was not completed by the start of the new academic year.

Adhadhu has learned that the ACs needed for some schools have not been transported yet.

The project was awarded to the Fenaka Corporation on June 12, 2025, for MVR 55 million.

However, the government awarded the school air-conditioning project to Asters again on November 6, 2025.

It was among the 206 projects which were distributed without an open bidding process. The project was awarded to Asters for MVR 58.4 million, MVR 3.4 million than Fenaka.

The Education Ministry did not disclose the reason why the Cool School project was not completed at the start of the new academic year. The ministry could not be reached for a comment.

On January 22, 2025, President Mohamed Muizzu announced that all schools in the Maldives will be air-conditioned using renewable energy by September of that year.

However, Education Minister Ismail Shafeeu later said the air-conditioning project will be completed by the start of the academic year in 2026.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Priority should be sale of assets to generate immediate liquidity

Former President Mohamed Nasheed urged the Maldives to prioritize selling assets for immediate liquidity rather than long-term projects like the $20 billion Rasmalé development. He argued the UAE-backed waterfront deal will not provide the urgent cash flow needed to resolve the nation's current financial crisis.

Police seek charges against six men for assaulting officers

Maldives Police are seeking charges against six men for assaulting officers during a drug search in Maafushi. Five suspects remain in custody, while one was released by the court. Authorities have also appealed the release of a seventh individual involved in the August incident.

No tax concessions for UAE developer in Rasmale' project

The Maldives government awarded the $20 billion Rasmalé project to UAE developer Eagle Hills without tax concessions or exemptions. All business activities will follow national tax laws, with payments processed through local banks. The state expects over $11 billion in revenue from sales fees and commercial revenue sharing.

No details on size and value of land given to Dubai company

The Maldives government signed a $20 billion deal with Dubai’s Eagle Hills to develop a massive integrated zone in Rasmalé. While the project promises 54,000 jobs and housing, officials have withheld specific details regarding the land size, valuation, and lease terms. The area is expected to operate as a special economic township.

Rasmale' investor to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumale'

The Maldivian government has partnered with UAE-based Eagle Hills to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumalé using a contractor financing model. This agreement follows a massive $20 billion deal for the firm to develop Rasmalé. The project will feature luxury residences and a world-class marina without impacting existing housing plans.

AMFA concludes first Junior Lifeguard Program

The Australia Maldives Friendship Association successfully completed its first Junior Lifeguard Program pilot in Thulusdhoo and Fuvahmulah. The initiative trained youth in water safety and rescue skills to enhance maritime security. AMFA plans to expand the program across the Maldives by 2027 through partnerships with local councils.

Project to build international bowling arena in Hulhumale'

A private company has been awarded a MVR 20 million project to build the Maldives' first international-standard bowling arena in Hulhumale'. The two-story facility aims to host global competitions, though the direct award process lacks an official statement. This project is part of a broader plan to develop world-class sports infrastructure.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox