The government envisions the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) as a distinguished regional institution for Islamic education, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

The Maldivian leader said this while speaking at the 2nd session of the IUM Convocation 2023 held at IUM's Conference Hall on Thursday.

Taking the podium at the event, President Solih shed light on his administration’s commitment to establish IUM as a regional institution for Islamic education as well as a center dedicated to promoting the noble values of Islam.

He also emphasized on the importance of the university in instilling virtuous Islamic values in students and highlighted the collaborative efforts between IUM and the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) in safeguarding the Maldives against the spread of religious extremism.

The president went on to reiterate his administration’s commitment to establish and enhance modern education by providing comprehensive educational opportunities across the Maldives.

He further noted that a significant portion of the state budget for 2023 has been allocated to education development, at MVR 4.6 billion making up approximately 10.9 percent.

MVR 857 million has been earmarked to advance higher secondary education.

President Solih stated that the administration's wide-ranging initiatives to encourage human resource development that meet national requirements, is demonstrated by programs such as the free degree program and low-interest student loans.

Shedding light on the salary revision for lecturers at IUM recently finalized by the Pay Commission and the Ministry of Finance, the president stated that this indicated a great improvement in their salary.

Thursday’s ceremony also saw President Solih announcing that the administration will soon be implementing an enhanced salary and vacation policy framework for Imams.

President Solih went on to assure that the improved allowances for individuals with special needs would be disbursed in June 2023, as scheduled.

709 students successfully graduated from diverse academic programs at the university during Thursday’s ceremony. Nine students among these were honored with the ‘Best Student’ awards.

78 Imams completed their studies through the degree program initiated by the Islamic ministry in collaboration with IUM in 2020.

President Solih presented awards to the Imams who graduated, as well as the recipients of the ‘Best Student’ awards.

First Lady Fazna Ahmed, who was also in attendance, presented awards to the recipients of the Master of Teaching and Learning program .