United World College Maldives (UWC Maldives) has granted scholarships to three outstanding students to pursue international education at prestigious UWC institutions.
The 2025 UWC scholarship recipients are Izyala binth Ali Shameem from Kudafari School in Noonu Atoll, Yazan Abdullah Saeed from Brightway International School, and Hawwa Ish-ha from Thaajudheen School in Male’ City.
The scholars will attend Mahindra United World College of India (MUWCI), Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong, and Pearson College UWC in Canada.
UWC Maldives selected the recipients through a rigorous process involving a public call for applications, interviews, and a two-day selection camp to evaluate candidates’ skills and performance. The selection criteria emphasized academic excellence, technical proficiency, social engagement, and critical thinking.
Zaheena Rasheed, Chair of the UWC Maldives Executive Committee, described the scholarships as a transformative opportunity for the recipients.
“These students will represent the Maldives on a global stage, gaining experiences that will shape their futures and inspire positive change,” she said. Zaheena expressed hope that the scholars will return to contribute to the Maldives after completing their studies.
Currently, three other Maldivian students are studying in Germany, China, and South Africa through UWC scholarships.
The scholarships target students aged 15–17 who have completed or are completing Grade 10, enabling them to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma at a United World College. The IB Diploma, a two-year program equivalent to A-Levels, is recognized by the Maldives Qualifications Authority.United World Colleges, with campuses in 18 countries, aim to foster cross-cultural understanding and global citizenship.
These scholarships are supported by the Ali FulhuThuthu Foundation (AFTF), which partners with UWC Maldives to provide these opportunities.