The Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development has opened applications for the prestigious Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship by Japanese Grant Aid for the 2026/2027 academic intake, offering fully funded master's degree opportunities in Japan for Maldivian civil servants.
The scholarship framework, financed by the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, is designed to build technical capacity and policy formulation expertise among young professionals employed across state ministries and public institutions.
Academic disciplines and eligibility
According to the Ministry of Higher Education, the scholarships cover comprehensive study programs conducted in English at renowned Japanese universities. The curriculum focuses on critical national development priorities, including public policy, economics, business administration, international relations, environmental governance, and maritime affairs.
Eligible candidates must be confirmed civil servants or permanent employees of independent state commissions with at least two years of full-time public service experience:
"The JDS programme represents a cornerstone of bilateral educational cooperation between the Maldives and Japan. It equips future public service leaders with advanced policy skills needed to resolve complex socio-economic challenges," the ministry noted in an official circular.
The scholarship package covers full university tuition fees, international airfare, living stipends, book allowances, and comprehensive medical insurance throughout the two-year study period in Japan.
Strengthening public administration
The JDS programme has supported dozens of Maldivian civil servants since its inception, with alumni currently occupying senior director and permanent secretary posts across ministries.
Higher Education Minister Dr. Maryam Mariya urged qualified young officers in atoll and central administrations to apply before the published deadline in mid-November. Selection will be conducted jointly by JICA representatives and Maldivian academic committees, evaluating candidates through academic assessments and structured interviews.