The most important thing to do for the country’s growth is the development of people, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

The President stated this at the inauguration ceremony of the largest school in the Maldives, “Huravee School” on Sunday morning.

Highlighting that his government will prioritize the development of people’s facilities in the country, President Solih said that since day one his administration has been working tirelessly to broaden the education system.

“We have been opening doors for the students since day one” said President Solih.

Stressing that many complaints have surfaced on the growing expenses in higher education, President Solih said that the people are requesting for a lowered interest rate for student loans. Since then, the President stated that a higher education policy has been assembled.

“We will be creating opportunities to get a Bachelor’s degree in the Maldives. Further, the interest rates for students loans have also been reduced by three percent” said President Solih.

As part of President Solih’s first 100-day pledges, the Higher Education Ministry had in late December established a loan scheme that carries a lesser interest rate, to those who wish to go abroad for further studies. The government is also to pave an easier way for student loans to be paid off.  As such, the government has extended the duration to pay off said loans.

In addition, President Solih stated that his government will provide scholarships for students who excel in higher studies, from universities of OICD countries.

While 780 students are enrolled at the new school for the new academic year which commenced on Sunday, Huravee school is a seven-story building with three blocks and 53 classrooms, located in capital city Male’s suburban extension Hulhumale’ next to Little Gems Pre-school.

The school will be teaching from grades one to nine. However, the Education Ministry revealed that they will introduce A ‘Levels to Huravee School in 2020.

Huravee School's construction was contracted to Amin Construction for MVR 132 million. Two out of the 53 class rooms will be specialized for students with special needs.

The Ministry further revealed that the school has employed 60 local teachers, the total number of employees reaching 80.

The school accommodates up to 1,450 students and represents Sultan Ghazi Hassan Izzuddin or “Dhon Bandaarain” who was king of the Maldives in 1759. “Huravee Day” pays contribute to the Sultan who freed Maldives from foreign invaders.