The Maldives National University (MNU) and the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to subsidize fees for media-related courses, as part of a broader push to professionalize journalism in the country.
The agreement was signed at a ceremony held at the MNU Conference Hall. Youth Minister Ibrahim Waheed (Asward) signed on behalf of the ministry, while Vice Chancellor Dr. Aishath Shehnaz Adam signed for the university.
According to the Youth Ministry, the MoU aims to accelerate national development by strengthening collaboration between the ministry and the university. Under the agreement, MNU will provide resources and technical support for training programs aligned with Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) standards. The university will also assist in conducting sessions through the College of Training and help recruit qualified facilitators.
The ministry, in turn, will help recruit participants and contribute to course fees for media-related programs.
Speaking at the event, Minister Asward urged journalists to enroll in formal training, stating that academic learning offers a different depth compared to on-the-job experience.
Youth Minister Ibrahim Waheed (Asward) and MNU Vice Chancellor Dr. Aishath Shehnaz Adam signs MoU to subsidize fees for media-related courses at the university, November 12, 2025. (Photo/Youth Ministry)
“If I were to say one thing to journalists in the country, I would say attend these programmes. What you learn will be different. How much you know will be different. You finish the course, and the next day what you practice and what you write is also going to be different,” he said.
He noted that around 90 percent of journalists in the Maldives enter the field directly after secondary school, and encouraged media workers to pursue short courses, certificates, diplomas, degrees, and even master’s programs. He added that the government would provide support with course fees and information access.
The minister also announced that a master’s program in journalism will be launched at MNU next year.
This initiative follows President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s earlier pledge to fund media outlets through the state budget. The government initially allocated MVR 28 million to 18 outlets, but the decision was reversed after public backlash over the distribution process. The responsibility for media funding was subsequently transferred to the newly formed Media Council.
The council, appointed by a parliamentary majority, has faced criticism from journalists and civil society groups, who argue that it undermines press freedom. The government has denied these allegations.