President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that winners of the National Quran Competition will be awarded a special presidential scholarship to pursue studies in any country and in any field of their choice, up to the PhD level.

The President made the announcement on Tuesday via his official X account, recalling his remarks at the closing ceremony of this year’s 36th National Quran Competition, which he described as the country’s most prestigious and highly regarded competition.

Beginning this year, the first-place winners in the categories of recitation from the book, recitation from memory and Huffaz will receive the presidential scholarship. Each of these winners, together with the overall institution winner, will also be awarded a cash prize of MVR 100,000 and a plaque of honour.

According to the President, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs will enhance the prizes awarded to all winners, while opportunities will also be provided for private individuals to contribute prizes. The President stated that he believes the highest recognition should be reserved for those who excel in reciting the Qur’an.