The General National Congress of Libya plans to allocate LD 3.28 billion for 40,000 Libyans to study abroad, focusing on English language and technical training. Deputy Minister Bashir Echtewi confirmed that 5,692 students and 2,004 faculty will participate, with additional support for 31,000 students in language training. The initiative seeks to address unemployment and improve security, amidst criticism regarding local education system investments.
Libya’s General National Congress (GNC) has proposed a significant allocation of LD 3.28 billion (approximately US$2.57 billion) to facilitate the study of 40,000 Libyans abroad, focusing on English language and technical training. Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Bashir Echtewi, announced that 5,692 students and 2,004 faculty members, all possessing Master’s degrees, will benefit from this initiative. Additionally, 3,616 top students will be dispatched to complete their studies at foreign universities.
The funding will primarily support 10,000 students and faculty from vocational and higher education institutions. During a recent press conference, Mr. Echtewi detailed the program, emphasizing its extensive reach. Meanwhile, Abdulmonem Alyaser, a member of the GNC, indicated that enhancing security in Libya necessitates creating more job opportunities through professional and English language training. He underscored the imperative for strategic solutions to combat persistent unemployment, a key factor that contributed to the revolution.
To further support this initiative, an additional 31,000 students will undergo one year of English language training overseas, aiming to achieve the requisite TOFEL or IELTS scores for university acceptance. Compared to the previous budget of LD 1 billion, which catered to 12,500 students, this new funding will provide a substantial increase.
The GNC originally aimed to restrict funding recipients to individuals from the Warriors Affairs Commission, an organization supporting former combatants. Nevertheless, following public backlash, GNC broadened eligibility to include women and persons with disabilities. Given the high volume of applications, state institutions have been requested to nominate suitable candidates for this program.
In conjunction with the educational initiative, the GNC has proposed an investment of LD 7 billion aimed at small and medium enterprises and joint ventures in sectors such as solar power, cement, steel, agriculture, and tourism to address the growing unemployment issue, which currently stands at approximately 340,000 people.
Critics have raised concerns regarding the state of higher education in Libya, citing overcrowding and inadequate teaching standards. While the decision to send students abroad has merit, many believe it diverts attention from the essential need to fortify local educational institutions, which could yield long-term benefits for the country.
In summary, Libya’s General National Congress has proposed a substantial allocation of funds to facilitate the study of thousands of Libyans abroad, aiming to combat unemployment and enhance security through education and professional training. While the initiative has received significant attention, it also faces criticism regarding the neglect of local educational institutions. The move signifies a broader strategy to improve Libya’s socio-economic conditions through investments in education and entrepreneurship.
Original Source: thepienews.com
