Universal Foundation Opens Applications for 2026 Scholarship Opportunities

The Universal Foundation has officially opened applications for its annual scholarship opportunities on 15 February 2026, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing local talent and addressing national skill shortages in the Maldives.

This year, three scholarships are available, primarily focusing on developing expertise in the healthcare sector.

Two scholarships are offered under the Medical Specialization Scholarship, aimed at supporting young doctors who wish to specialize in various medical subfields.

Medical Specialization Scholarship

• Level: Master’s

• Countries: Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand

• Number of scholarships: Two

• Duration: 2–3 years

• Application deadline: 15 May 2026

In addition, the Foundation is offering a scholarship in memory of the late Dr. Ibrahim Umar Maniku, designed to support one eligible applicant pursuing postgraduate studies in a critical area of internal medicine.

Scholarship in Memory of the Late Dr. Ibrahim Umar Maniku

• Level: Postgraduate

• Countries: Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand

• Number of scholarships: One

• Duration: 2–3 years

• Application deadline: 15 May 2026

The Universal Foundation has long been dedicated to developing human resources that benefit the nation, with a particular focus on sectors where skilled professionals are critically needed, especially healthcare and tourism.

Through its initiatives, the Foundation has awarded more than 100 scholarships across a wide range of fields. While many focus on health and tourism, scholarships have also supported studies in education, business, engineering, information technology and other disciplines, helping to build a diverse and capable workforce.

At present, nine fully funded scholars supported by the Foundation are studying abroad, specializing in areas of medicine such as oncology, surgery, pediatrics and colorectal surgery, among other fields. These efforts aim to strengthen the Maldives’ healthcare system in the long term.

Meanwhile, the Universal Foundation has also completed the seventh batch of its Discover Hospitality Program, with 30 participants now awaiting graduation. The next batch will be announced soon.

As part of its broader mission to enhance community well-being through humanitarian efforts, the Foundation continues to collaborate with NGOs and community partners, investing in programs designed to create lasting positive impact. Several collaborative initiatives are planned to be showcased throughout 2026.

The Universal Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Universal Enterprises, one of the Maldives’ largest tourism groups.