Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, H.E. Wang Lixin, emphasized the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future, quoting Chinese President Xi Jinping during the 2024 Chinese Ambassador Bursary Award Ceremony. Addressing students, she remarked, “The future of the nation is in the hands of the youth,” as she presented bursaries to 32 students from the Maldivian National University (MNU) and the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM).
The ceremony, held in Malé, was attended by Mr. Ahmed Shafeeu, State Minister of Higher Education, Labour, and Skills Development, Dr. Aishath Adam, Vice Chancellor of MNU, and Ms. Aishath Waheedha, Deputy Vice Chancellor of IUM. Faculty members, along with students from both universities, gathered to celebrate the achievements of the award recipients.
Ambassador Wang’s remarks highlighted the growing significance of China-Maldives relations, especially in the field of education. She referenced President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s recent state visit to China, which she said brought the bilateral partnership to new heights. “Youth are the most active and dynamic force in society,” she said, encouraging the students to strive for excellence and take advantage of opportunities like the China Ambassador Bursary.
In her speech, she expressed her hope that Maldivian students would not only enhance their academic skills but also become ambassadors of the enduring friendship between China and the Maldives. She announced that a group of 12 students from MNU and IUM would soon visit China, furthering educational and cultural exchanges between the two nations. Additionally, Ambassador Wang welcomed more Maldivian students to pursue higher studies in China, supported by the Chinese government’s scholarship programs.
The Maldivian side expressed deep gratitude to China for its continued support in advancing higher education and youth development. Mr. Ahmed Shafeeu praised the scholarship program as a testament to the strong partnership between the two nations, adding that such initiatives would help the Maldives develop human resources and achieve sustainable growth.
As the two countries deepen their collaboration in education, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to empowering the youth, ensuring that they are equipped to lead their nation toward a brighter and more prosperous future.