The Minister of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development, Dr Ismail Shafeeu has asserted that the cultivation of talented scholars is the most critical investment a nation can make, declaring them "more valuable than gold and precious jewels."
The Minister delivered this message during the graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Engineering Science and Technology and the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences at the Maldives National University (MNU).
Speaking to the new cohort of graduates, Minister Ismail Shafeeu elaborated on the invaluable nature of human resources, placing them above even the most precious material wealth. He emphasised that the future prosperity and leadership of the Maldives depend on its ability to nurture capable, knowledgeable, and courageous citizens.
"This really tells us that human resources are more valuable than gold and precious jewels, and [it highlights] the importance of talented, knowledgeable, faithful, and courageous people who will lead the country," he said.
Reflecting on the students' academic journey, Minister Ismail Shafeeu framed MNU’s role as a monumental national investment. He highlighted that the true value of higher education extends far beyond textbooks and syllabi, residing in the invaluable interactions between students and lecturers.
"MNU is really making a huge investment. The time you spend with the lecturers when students come to a class is very valuable. There will be more valuable conversations in class than lessons," he said, pointing to the development of critical thinking and professional wisdom as key outcomes.
The Minister also issued a heartfelt call to action, urging all graduates to leverage their newly acquired expertise for the greater good. He encouraged them to step forward into their professional lives with a sense of duty, ready to serve the nation and contribute to its progress.