The council of Kendhikulhudhoo island in Noonu atoll has revealed that work on the development of a ‘Junior College’ in the island is set to commence during 2021.

Speaking to RaajjeMV regarding the development project, the island council’s President, Ali Shameem revealed that students in the island face numerous challenges in completing higher education as most of them are required to seek higher education in the capital.

The scheme is being carried out by the Ministry of Higher Education and is at a standstill due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The concept paper documents for the project have also been completed, stated Shameem.

The project is currently in the consultancy Terms of Reference (ToR) and concept sketching phase. A plot of land has also been allocated to develop the junior college.

Shameem noted that although the project has been halted due to the current situation revolving around the pandemic, the council respects the government’s decision.

He added that five additional projects are currently ongoing in the island without interruption and thanked the incumbent administration for resilient efforts in bringing development across the island nation, even in such difficult times.

The council remains hopeful that students in the island will be able to complete their higher education once the project is completed, and also for students from other islands to enroll as well. This will help boost the island’s finances.

Highlighting that the college will enhance the island’s educational sector, Shameem said that students will be able to proceed in several different sectors including the tourism industry, fisheries as well as marine studies.