The government has set aside about Nu. 150mn, identified under the economic stimulus plan’s special support scheme as education loan. The interest free loan was approved by the Cabinet last week.
It comes amidst concerns for many high school graduates who have disqualified to study in government colleges in the country.
Last year, close to 10,000 students sat for the Class 12 examination of which about 8,400 students were declared pass.
From the total of 8,357 passed students, the Royal University of Bhutan have been able to take in only 3,864 students in the different institutes and colleges.
However, the Education loan is not for everyone. The government’s plan is to grant it to about one 100 to 150 students, preferably those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
The Ministry will assess the applicants by monitoring the background of the applicants through a committee with representatives from relevant organisations.
The debtors are to repay the interest-free loan in 15 years after a relaxation period of 2 years.
Those willing to avail the loan may log in the ministry’s website at www.education.gov.bt