A major initiative to cultivate economic awareness and policy thinking among young Maldivians has been launched by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA). The Tamweel EconQuest Debate Competition 2025 invites students aged 16 to 25 from schools, colleges, and universities across the Greater Malé region to engage in competitive debates tackling key economic challenges facing the Maldives and the world.
The competition is designed as part of MMA’s broader commitment to enhancing financial literacy, civic engagement, and analytical capabilities among the nation’s youth. Participants will debate timely issues such as financial inclusion, digital currencies, Islamic finance, and the economic impact of climate change, topics that resonate deeply with both local and global policy landscapes. In line with MMA’s educational outreach goals, the competition encourages youth to understand and contribute to discussions that shape fiscal sustainability, financial resilience, and equitable economic growth.
Debates will be conducted in English using a modified public forum or spontaneous argumentation style. Each speaker will be allotted five minutes for delivery, with thirty minutes of preparation time granted before each round. To ensure fairness and dynamic engagement, final motions will be disclosed on the day of the competition, although a pool of potential themes will be provided in advance to help participants prepare.
In recognition of talent and effort, the MMA has allocated over MVR 16,000 in prizes. The winning team will receive MVR 8,000, a trophy, and certificates. The runner-up will be awarded MVR 5,000, while the Best Speaker will be recognized with a MVR 2,000 prize. Additionally, a Special Recognition Award of MVR 1,000 will be given to a participant who demonstrates creativity, impactful delivery, and a unique perspective during the debates.
The central banking authority emphasized that EconQuest is more than just a competition, it is a platform to empower youth to explore real-world economic problems and articulate forward-thinking solutions that contribute to national development and financial policy innovation. As the Maldives strengthens its economic institutions and looks toward a future shaped by sustainable finance, youth participation in these dialogues becomes increasingly important.
Interested teams must consist of three to five members and should nominate a team leader when applying. The application deadline is set for 30th September 2025 at 23:59 (Maldives time). Registrations must be submitted through the official online form. Participants facing technical issues during the application process are advised to contact the MMA via [email protected] for assistance.
The MMA, as the primary financial regulator in the Maldives, continues to play a leading role in economic development, financial system oversight, and public engagement. Through initiatives like Tamweel EconQuest, the authority reinforces its role not just as a regulator, but as a knowledge partner invested in shaping informed citizens who can contribute to the country’s economic dialogue, both locally and on the international stage.
Aspiring debaters can access the full competition guide and registration form through the following links:
📘 Competition Guide
📝 Register Here
This is more than a contest, it’s an opportunity for students to challenge assumptions, sharpen their voice, and be part of the national conversation shaping the future of the Maldivian economy.
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