The Minister of Education Dr Ismail Shafeeu has said that the Ministry of Education has repaid MVR 250 million owed to companies and individuals.

In an interview with Mihaaru News, the Minister revealed that upon assuming control of the previous government, the Ministry of Education was faced with an outstanding debt of MVR 287 million, which had been accumulated between 2019 and 2023.

The Minister added that, of the total amount, MVR 250 million has already been paid this year, leaving an outstanding balance of MVR 37 million, which will be settled following a review of certain matters.

He noted that the biggest challenge in settling these debts was also ensuring that ongoing projects and work continued without disruption.

There has been a lack of proper documentation concerning the construction of a school in Malé area, which was awarded to a contractor for MVR 16 million for early completion under previous administration. The Ministry has raised these issues with the relevant authorities for further review.