President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to creating career opportunities in the Maldives for graduates in science, engineering and mathematics.
The President made the remarks during the seventh episode of The Pulse, in a discussion with two Maldivian students pursuing higher education in engineering.
In commemoration of National Engineers’ Day, this week’s episode of The Pulse focused on the President’s professional background in engineering. The programme featured a discussion between the President and the students on career opportunities for engineers in the Maldives and the future of the field.
Joining the President in the discussion were Aishath Leen Nazim, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Architectural Environmental Engineering at the University of Nottingham, UK, and Makhtoom bin Hussain, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Birmingham, UK.
Responding to questions from the students about career prospects in the Maldives for graduates in engineering and other science-based disciplines, the President outlined several initiatives planned by the Government to promote these fields and expand employment opportunities. He highlighted plans to increase awareness among secondary and higher secondary students of opportunities available through science and mathematics streams. He further stated that Government policies are being developed to prioritise these fields under higher education loan schemes and expand professional opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
The President also announced that, going forward, half of all Government-funded higher education loans will be allocated to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. He expressed his vision of seeing Maldivian professionals leading these industries within the next three to five years.
During the discussion, the President also underscored the importance of diversifying renewable energy sources. He noted that, as part of efforts to meet at least 30 per cent of the Maldives’ energy requirements through renewable sources by 2028, the potential for ocean-based energy production must also be explored. He further stated that measures are being taken to ensure that the transition from non-renewable to renewable energy is undertaken through a holistic and sustainable approach.
This week’s episode of The Pulse also featured a special segment on the President’s professional journey as an engineer. The segment included insights and testimonials from First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, as well as colleagues, friends and mentors from his academic and professional career.
