Minister says delay in releasing funds to students is due to universities submitting invoices at the last minute
The Minister stated that delays in fund disbursement persist due to the involvement of three separate oversight agencies. He further noted that the primary challenge arises from universities submitting invoices at the last minute, which hinders the processing timeline.
Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed | RaajjeMV | Raajje MV
Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed has stated that the primary reason for delays in releasing student funds is that universities submit their invoices at the last minute.
As students face significant hardships due to unpaid funds and many report difficulties in communicating with the Ministry regarding these issues, the Minister responded to inquiries by stating that WhatsApp groups were introduced as an initial measure to facilitate easier communication. These groups were specifically established for countries where more than 50 students are currently enrolled.
However, the Minister stated that the President has advised the creation of dedicated WhatsApp groups for countries hosting more than 25 students. He further noted that these groups have already been established in all such countries, with the exception of three.
We have not observed any issues or irregularities regarding this matter.Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed
The Minister noted that delays in the disbursement of funds are still being observed. He explained that these delays occur because the payment process involves oversight from three different agencies. Furthermore, the Minister stated that the primary issue arises from universities submitting their invoices at the last minute.
There are some payment delays, which occur because the disbursement process requires verification from three separate agencies. In some instances, when we receive invoices from universities, there is only one week remaining before the deadline. Consequently, we encounter difficulties in meeting those deadlines, which is likely the primary issue at hand.Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed
As the cost of living continues to rise daily, the Minister stated that the Ministry will be reviewing the necessary factors to adjust student stipends. The Minister further noted that efforts will be prioritized to expedite this process, particularly for countries where a significant number of Maldivian students are currently enrolled.
