- A total of 1,351 students have applied for higher education loans
- Higher Education Minister Dr. Ali Haidar confirmed that the government aims to offer loans
- The loan facility includes new student loans and top-up loans for existing students
A total of 1,351 students have shown interest in availing themselves of higher education loans under the state's student loan scheme, said Higher Education Minister Dr Ali Haidar on Tuesday.
The window, launched on March 29 last year with 500 slots, witnessed applications from those who wish to pursue further education both locally and overseas.
Replying to a query by Hulhumale' South MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed during today's Parliament session, Minister Haidar informed that the government's policy has been to offer loans to all deserving applicants a precedence followed last year.
He informed that the same process would be adopted this year as well, though no official decision has yet been taken.
The minister also responded to concerns regarding delay in the process of disbursement of loans. He added that the allocation of loans is subject to the merit of A-Level examination results, which are normally released after February.
"It [Loan] opened in January, but we have to wait until the end of February to award the students," Minister Haidar said.
The loan facility would be provided in two types; new student loans and top-up loans for existing students. Top-up loans have a maximum limit of MVR 700,000.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has already declared that the one percent administrative charge on student loan repayment will be exempted under his government.
