Sheikh Ibrahim Rasheed Hassan has resigned as an imam at the Islamic Centre to pursue a career in higher education.

In a post on Facebook, Sheikh Ibrahim said it had been a great honor and privilege to serve as an imam at the Islamic Centre for the past seven years.

He thanked former president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, the ministers he had worked with and his fellow imams for their support during his tenure.

Sheikh Ibrahim said he has now joined the Islamic University of Maldives after stepping down from his role at the Islamic Centre.

"This is a decision to take advantage of an opportunity to serve the country in the field of education and teaching," he wrote.

His announcement was widely welcomed on social media, with many users congratulating him and wishing him success in his new role.