BML partners with Visa and Education Ministry to deliver nationwide financial literacy programs

The Bank of Maldives (BML), in partnership with Visa and the Ministry of Education, has launched a nationwide financial literacy program aimed at strengthening financial awareness among youth, small and medium enterprises, schools, and communities.  

The initiative was inaugurated at a signing ceremony attended by Visa Country Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives Avanthi Colombage, BML CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef, and Minister of Education Dr. Ismail Shafeeu.  

Under the agreement, BML and the Ministry of Education will conduct Visa’s globally recognized programs, Practical Money Skills (PMS) and Practical Business Skills (PBS), in the Maldives.  

The sessions will cover:  

• Budgeting and saving for the future  

• Responsible use of credit and debt management  

• Cash flow management and pricing for SMEs  

• Digital payments and customer growth strategies  

BML CEO Mohamed Shareef said the program reflects the bank’s priority to equip future generations with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions:  

“Helping students build a strong financial foundation is an important long-term step to strengthening this country’s economy.”  

We’re delighted to announce a strategic partnership with Visa, a global leader in digital payments, to launch a comprehensive, nationwide Financial Literacy Program designed to enhance financial education for youth, MSMEs, educational institutions, and underserved communities… pic.twitter.com/vwi3ORKxRU

— Bank of Maldives (@bankofmaldives) December 10, 2025

Visa Country Manager Avanthi Colombage said financial literacy is fundamental to building resilience and economic progress:  

“By introducing Visa’s Practical Money Skills and Practical Business Skills programs to Maldives, we are empowering more individuals and small businesses to make confident, sustainable, and financially sound decisions in an increasingly digital economy.”  

She added that the initiative supports the Maldives’ long-term strategy to diversify beyond tourism and accelerate inclusive growth through digital transformation.  

As the largest financial institution in the Maldives, BML has conducted more than 200 financial literacy workshops in schools and communities over the past year.