President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that work has begun to establish university campuses in all atolls, with the project expected to be completed by next year.

The President made the remarks while speaking at the Youth Coffee with President session held during the National Youth Conference 2025. He said the Government is committed to addressing concerns raised by young people, particularly regarding access to higher education outside the Greater Malé Region.

Responding to questions from participants who highlighted the lack of university level education opportunities in some atolls, President Dr Muizzu said it is his policy to ensure the availability of higher education campuses in every atoll.

He said work is already underway to establish campuses of the Maldives National University (MNU) or the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) in each atoll, adding that implementation has been assigned to relevant parties.

The President noted that in some atolls, campuses of both universities will be established. He also announced plans to develop student accommodation facilities across all atolls to support access to higher education.

President Dr Muizzu said he expects the establishment of the campuses and related facilities to be completed by next year.

He further highlighted the importance of vocational education and training, stating that the Government places strong emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The President noted that TVET programmes have already been expanded.