President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has assured the residents of Alifu Alifu Himandhoo that long-delayed projects at the island’s school will be completed in time for the start of the next academic year.

Speaking during his visit to the island, the President said that addressing the shortage of space at Himandhoo School was among his top priorities. He confirmed that the stalled project to build 12 new classrooms and a multi-purpose hall, first launched in 2021 but left unfinished under the previous administration, would be delivered within three months.

In this regard, the President added that the Government’s target is to resume the project this year and complete it within three months – in time for the new academic year. He noted that the expansion would ease the most pressing need of teachers, parents, and students.

The President highlighted other key development projects for Himandhoo. With the opening of the new Health Centre, he pledged to establish a high-quality laboratory service and ensure sufficient staffing. He also confirmed that the mosque currently under construction would be completed by December.

Addressing infrastructure challenges, President Dr Muizzu noted that rock boulders required for coastal protection had already been brought in to tackle the island’s erosion problem. He also acknowledged issues with the local harbour and committed to pursuing solutions.

The President further added that new sports facilities will be established in Himandhoo, including upgrades to the existing ground, fitness and recreation centres, and indoor spaces. He announced that the upcoming national budget would include a two-year project to build handball courts across all inhabited islands, with Himandhoo among the beneficiaries.

Responding to residents’ concerns over road development, President Dr Muizzu said that instead of asphalt roads in islands primed for local tourism, the Government would focus on establishing proper drainage systems on the sandy roads. He also reiterated the Administration’s priority on land reclamation in Himandhoo to provide additional space for the island, confirming that the project will be included in the 2026 budget.