The Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments is consulting on the introduction of a scholarship scheme aimed at expanding opportunities for young Khateebs to pursue higher education in Islamic studies.

The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed and a group of young Khateebs who deliver Friday sermons in the Malé area.

Discussions focused on the future development of the Young Khateeb Programme and initiatives to support participants seeking advanced Islamic education. These included facilitating admission to Arab Islamic universities and establishing a scholarship scheme for young Khateebs interested in pursuing higher studies in various fields of Islamic studies.

The meeting also explored ways to create permanent opportunities for young Khateebs who wish to serve as mosque imams, in addition to their role in delivering Friday sermons.

Minister Dr Shaheem said the Ministry plans to continue holding similar consultations with young Khateebs as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen and further develop the programme.

The Young Khateeb Training Programme has produced more than 600 graduates across four batches to date. The Ministry's long-term objective is to train 1,000 young Khateebs nationwide.