News Desk
MALE’, Maldives — Villa College is at the forefront of reshaping higher education in the Maldives, Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim said yesterday during a certificate awarding ceremony. Speaking as the chief guest at this year’s event, Nazim underscored the institution’s efforts to introduce foreign university courses in the Maldives, partnering with international institutions such as Malaysia’s Taylors University and the University of West England.
Nazim revealed that the groundwork for Villa College to achieve university status is progressing steadily. “The bill to convert colleges into universities has passed the committee stage. By next year, we hope Villa College will be recognized as a university,” he stated.
With the Maldives facing a foreign currency shortage, Nazim highlighted the importance of offering world-class education locally. “It’s a privilege for students in the Maldives to access courses from globally recognized universities without having to leave the country,” he added.
Addressing the graduating students, Nazim pointed out the growing “green opportunities” in education and other sectors. He noted that the opening of the new terminal at Velana International Airport would create approximately 1,600 white-collar jobs, offering fresh career opportunities for skilled graduates. Nazim also emphasized the expanding prospects in auditing and law, encouraging students to make the most of these openings.
“Job opportunities across various sectors will increase in the coming year and beyond. We need committed professionals ready to take advantage of these prospects,” Nazim remarked.
In his speech, Nazim praised Villa College’s founder, philanthropist Gasim Ibrahim, for his tireless dedication to the education sector and for overcoming significant challenges to establish the institution as a leader in the field.
Gasim Ibrahim is unique in his commitment to providing quality education in the Maldives. He was a pioneer who began offering higher education scholarships to various universities abroad through his educational endowment.
The Student Achievement Awards, held yesterday, honored Villa College’s top-performing students from both last year and this year.
