Medical students at MNU, photo: MNU
Medical students at MNU, photo: MNU
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has called for increased emphasis on training students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, stressing the need for the Maldives to develop a skilled workforce in these critical sectors.

The President made these remarks during the third episode of Rayyithunnaa Eku, a podcast hosted by the President’s Office to engage directly with the public, address their concerns, and provide insights into government initiatives.

In his speech, President Muizzu reiterated his Administration’s commitment to expanding higher education opportunities both within the Maldives and abroad. He highlighted that one of the government’s key priorities is to foster a generation of graduates with expertise in diverse fields, with a particular focus on those who can contribute to the nation’s development.

However, the President raised concerns about the recent decline in the number of students pursuing STEM-related disciplines. He pointed out that, based on his overseas visits, many Maldivian students abroad tend to gravitate towards fields like Accounting and Finance. While acknowledging the importance of these fields, he stressed the need for more professionals in STEM to meet the country’s growing demands.

The President specifically addressed the shortage of STEM professionals, noting that the Maldives currently rely on foreign workers in critical sectors, including medicine, engineering, and construction. He emphasized that there is a growing gap in essential professions like engineering, quantity surveying, and other technical fields necessary to support the country’s ongoing infrastructure projects.

To combat this shortage, President Muizzu revealed that the Government is prioritizing STEM disciplines in both educational loan schemes and public sector recruitment. Graduates in STEM fields are now given preference for government jobs, with attractive salary packages to incentivize more students to pursue careers in these essential sectors.

Concluding the episode, President Muizzu encouraged the public to continue engaging with him through Rayyithunnaa Eku, emphasizing that citizens are welcome to ask questions and raise issues that matter to them. His administration remains committed to addressing the concerns of the people and ensuring that education aligns with the country’s future needs.