Maldives Aims for 500 Certified Quran Memorisers Within Five-Year Government Term

The Maldives is experiencing a significant spiritual revival, marked by a steady increase in the number of citizens dedicating themselves to the memorisation of the Holy Quran. To support this growth, the government has launched a strategic initiative to increase the total number of certified Huffaz (memorisers) to 500 within its five-year term. Recent statistics from the National Centre for the Holy Quran reveal a diverse demographic of learners. Currently, 1,185 students are enrolled in memorisation classes, with ages ranging from seven-year-old children to senior citizens over 65. This inclusive trend is evident in this year's graduates; of the 29 students who successfully memorised the entire Quran so far this year, four were just 13 years old, while another four were over the age of 43. These new graduates bring the national total of recognised Huffaz to 320. The country's youngest record-holder, Aman Ahmed Athif, completed his memorisation at age seven and is now 11. With three more candidates currently undergoing evaluation, the National Centre for the Holy Quran plans to expand its evaluation committees to process candidates more efficiently. To ensure accessibility, the Centre allows students from registered classes to apply directly for official examinations. Those who are self-taught or enrolled in unregistered programs can also seek certification by submitting proof of competence from a registered Hafiz on the Centre's official registry. The government is scaling its investment in this spiritual journey through a network of 20 memorisation centers operating across the archipelago, with the highest enrollment seen in the Malé and Hulhumale’ branches. Beyond infrastructure, the administration is introducing tangible incentives to honor those who complete the rigorous process. This includes the introduction of a special academic gown for graduation ceremonies and a doubling of the state allowance provided to recognised Huffaz, reflecting the high value placed on divine guidance and scholarship within the nation.