Universal Foundation Awards Four Medical Scholarships for 2026

Universal Foundation has awarded four medical scholarships for 2026, supporting Maldivian doctors pursuing specialized training in key areas of healthcare.

The scholarships were presented at an official awarding ceremony held on 13 August.

This year’s recipients are Aishath Zaha, who will pursue a Master’s in Neurosurgery; Mueez Mohamed, who will undertake an MS in Pediatric Surgery; Mohamed Ifuhaam, who will pursue an MD in Critical Care Medicine; and Ismail Ejaz Ismail, who has been awarded a Fellowship in Pediatric Respiratory Medicine.

Established in 2013, Universal Foundation has continued to expand the philanthropic initiatives of Universal Enterprises, with medical education remaining one of its strategic priorities.

According to the Foundation, more than 60 doctors have completed studies in specialties including endocrinology, radiology, internal medicine, rheumatology, and obstetrics and gynecology through its scholarship programmes.

The Foundation said its medical scholarships are aimed at addressing national skills shortages by supporting areas of specialization that align with training requirements identified by the Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare.

To date, Universal Foundation has awarded more than 100 scholarships across a range of fields, including medicine, information technology, accounting, business management, and tourism.

In addition to scholarships, the Foundation continues to support community-focused initiatives through partnerships with non-governmental organizations. These include the Maldives Red Crescent’s Partners for Humanity Programme and MOMS Aid’s Hiya Vehi 2026 Programme.

The Foundation is also preparing to launch Little Smiles, a fundraising initiative to be carried out in partnership with NGOs specializing in children’s welfare and development.

Its environmental initiatives include sustainability activities conducted with MOPA, focusing on plastic recycling and promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.

Universal Foundation also highlighted the continued progress of its Discover Hospitality Program, implemented in collaboration with Versa Hospitality and Villa College. In July, the Foundation marked the completion of the eighth batch of the C3 Hospitality Program and the second batch of the C3 Culinary Arts Program.

The Foundation said it remains committed to empowering individuals and strengthening communities through scholarships, internship opportunities and sustainable community development initiatives that contribute to the long-term development of the Maldives.