The government has awarded grants to three institutions to support scientific research in fields critical to the Maldives.
The grants have been awarded to the Maldives National University (MNU), the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) and Villa College. The agreements were signed on Wednesday between the Research Council of the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development and the three institutions.
According to the Ministry, these were the only institutions that expressed interest in applying for the research grant.
The research grants focus on key areas of national importance, including:
• Governance, Safety and Well-being
• Economic Development and Sustainability
• Digital Transformation and Innovation
• The Green Agenda
The Ministry stated that the main objectives of the grant programme are to facilitate scientific research essential for the Maldives’ development, promote evidence-based decision-making in formulating national development policies, and encourage the dissemination of research findings.
It added that while increased investment in research activities is a key pledge in the government's manifesto, supporting educational institutions through such grants will help foster a stronger research culture.