The Government spent MVR 835.6 million on its free degree programme between 2019 and 2024, according to an audit report released by the Auditor General’s Office.

The report found that 19,265 applications were received during the period, with 16,388 students offered places. However, the number of students who completed their degrees could not be determined due to inadequate records.

The Government spent an average of MVR 139.2 million annually on the scheme, with spending rising from MVR 85 million in 2019 to MVR 163.1 million in 2023 before falling to MVR 150.3 million in 2024.

The audit also found that MVR 19 million was spent on 790 students who did not complete their programmes, with no efforts made to recover the funds.

The Auditor General’s Office recommended establishing a system to track students and recover costs from those who discontinue their studies. It also recommended reviewing the scheme and expanding it to include vocational training in priority areas.