President Muizzu Prioritizes Maldivian Engineers to Drive National Development Goals

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has affirmed that Maldivian engineers are fundamental to the nation's development, pledging government support to reduce reliance on foreign expertise in the technical sector. Speaking to students at the Maldives National University's Faculty of Engineering, Science and Technology, the President emphasized a strategic shift toward empowering local professionals. The remarks coincided with the celebration of Engineers’ Day, a designation established last year to promote the engineering sector and inspire a new generation of local specialists. President Muizzu stated that his vision is to create an industry where Maldivians lead all engineering fields, ensuring that the country's infrastructure and development projects are managed by its own citizens. During the session, students raised concerns regarding the disproportionate number of expatriates employed in the sector compared to local graduates. The President acknowledged these challenges, asserting that in a small population like the Maldives, it is unacceptable for qualified local graduates to remain unemployed while foreign workers fill those roles. To address this gap, the administration intends to implement policy measures that simplify employment pathways for Maldivian engineers. President Muizzu highlighted that the government will prioritize the engineering sector when awarding High Achievers scholarships and loans, aiming to incentivize school leavers to pursue technical degrees. By strengthening educational opportunities through universities and creating targeted employment initiatives, the government seeks to build a sustainable pipeline of local talent. The President concluded that these efforts are not merely about job creation, but about ensuring national sovereignty over the technical and structural evolution of the Maldives.