The government has reversed its recent amendment to the President’s Special Scholarship policy after direct appeals from parents and students to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
The decision comes shortly after authorities had introduced a major reform allowing scholarship recipients to pursue any field of study. However, following widespread concerns raised by families and students, the policy has now been reverted to its original framework.
Policy rollback driven by public concerns
According to officials, numerous parents and students personally reached out to the President, requesting the government to reconsider the changes. These appeals highlighted concerns over the removal of structured guidance in selecting fields aligned with national priorities.
Responding to these requests, the government has reinstated the earlier policy, under which recipients of the President’s Special Scholarship must pursue studies in fields designated by the Ministry of Higher Education.
Return to structured academic pathways
The reinstated policy reflects a continued emphasis on directing top-performing students into priority sectors critical to national development. Authorities maintain that aligning scholarships with workforce needs ensures long-term economic sustainability and addresses key skill gaps in the country.
Balancing flexibility and national interest
The brief policy shift and subsequent reversal underscore an ongoing balancing act between:
- Providing students with academic freedom
- Ensuring national investment in education yields strategic returns
While the initial reform aimed to empower students with broader choice, the rollback signals a stronger policy preference toward structured, state-guided education pathways.
Scholarship framework remains unchanged
Despite the reversal, the core structure of the President’s Special Scholarship remains intact:
- Fully funded higher education for top achievers
- Selection based on top A-level performance
- Mandatory service requirement upon completion
The latest development highlights the government’s responsiveness to public feedback, while reaffirming its commitment to aligning education policies with national priorities.
