Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) is to establish a Learning Centre in the southern island of Fuvahmulah.
IUM and Fuvahmulah City Council signed the agreement in a ceremony held at the university on Monday. IUM was represented by Vice Chancellor Aishath Khaleela Abdul Sattar, while Mayor Abdulla Falah Shareef signed on behalf of the council.
Speaking to the press afterwards, Chancellor Khaleela declared that following the establishment of an IUM Learning Centre, the university planned to develop a campus in the island.
According to the chancellor, the Learning Centre will teach courses taught at Faculty of Sharia and Law, along with a "Local Governance and Imamship" course targeted towards the atolls.
She proclaimed that IUM wished to expand its services across the archipelago.
"President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has declared in his education policy to provide free higher education in all the islands. We commenced [the establishment of a Learning Centre in Fuvahmulah] to facilitate what we can achieve under that policy," she said.
Khaleela further announced that IUM will also establish Learning Centres in the islands of Thinadhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Naifaru in Lhaviyani Atoll, Kulhudhuffushi in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, and Fonadhoo in Laamu Atoll.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Falah noted that Maldivians across the island nation have long awaited the opportunity to study at IUM without moving to capital Male'. He expressed confidence that the Learning Centre in Fuvahmulah would greatly benefit the island's citizens.
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