Zakat House Renews Higher Education Scholarship Programme

The Maldives Zakat House has confirmed the renewal of its higher education scholarship programme for the current academic year, with financing provided through the Zakat Fund. 

The initiative offers financial assistance to students pursuing studies both in the Maldives and overseas, covering Islamic disciplines as well as other fields considered essential to national development.

The programme was reinstated last year after a seven-year suspension, marking the revival of the fund’s educational role. Prior to its renewal, no scholarships had been awarded since 2018.

In an interview with PSM News, Sheikh Imthithaau Abbas, Director General of the Zakat House, stated that applications are expected to open within the coming month. He indicated that the programme extends beyond Islamic education to include academic areas regarded as critical to the country’s broader progress.

He also noted that the institution is undertaking significant reform initiatives, including the drafting of new regulations and guidelines, alongside measures to strengthen the core functions of the fund. These frameworks are intended to ensure that Zakat disbursements are implemented in a sustainable manner. Legislative amendments under the Zakat Act are expected to further reinforce the long-term sustainability of scholarship funding.

During the previous academic year, the Zakat Fund offered 50 scholarships. Of these, 20 supported studies within the Maldives, while 30 were allocated to international placements in Malaysia, Brunei, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and several South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation member states. Seventeen scholarships were specifically designated for Malaysia and Brunei. In total, 17 students received full scholarships in Islamic studies, while seven were granted specialised awards.