Emergency motion alleging pay delays for govt scholarship students dismissed

The emergency motion submitted by Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), alleging government was failing to pay for the students of government loan schemes studying abroad on time, was dismissed at Monday's parliament sitting.

South-Hithadhoo MP from MDP Ibrahim Nazil submitted the motion.

59 members voted to dismiss the motion while only 12 members voted in favor.

The motion alleged President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's administration has not been regularly depositing the money to students studying abroad, and that the students faced difficulties due to this.

MDP alleged several students have not been able to pay their course fees, and in some cases colleges and universities have 'blacklisted' these students.

Nazil also claimed some of the students have been ordered to vacate their accommodations.

The MP alleged state funds were abused for illicit enrichment of top government officials, to renovate and improve their private residences and offices.

He added the government was wasting money on foreign trips and to pay political appointees.

Higher education opportunities is among the top priorities of the current administration, while President Dr. Muizzu earlier promised all eligible students will receive scholarship opportunities according to Higher Education Minister Dr. Mariyam Mariya.

The minister said this includes both new and enrolled students.

Earlier on June 11, the ministry confirmed it has facilitated loans to all 1,015 eligible applicants under the student loan scheme.