Libya’s GNC proposes LD 3.28 billion for sending 40,000 citizens abroad for education, focusing on English and technical training to improve job opportunities and national security. The initiative targets both students and faculty, with additional support for language training. Despite criticisms about local investment, the plan aims to address a severe unemployment crisis affecting hundreds of thousands in Libya.
Libya’s General National Congress (GNC) has proposed a plan to invest LD 3.28 billion (approximately US$2.57 billion) for sending 40,000 Libyans abroad to pursue education in English and technical training. This initiative also aims to boost employment opportunities in the country. Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Bashir Echtewi, announced that out of the total, 5,692 students and 2,004 faculty already holding Master’s degrees will be among the recipients of this funding.
The funding will specifically support 10,000 individuals in vocational and higher education institutions abroad. Among these, 3,616 will be identified as “top students” who will complete their studies at foreign universities. The GNC’s intention is to utilize this educational initiative as a strategy to enhance security through job creation, as noted by GNC member Abdulmonem Alyaser.
Alyaser emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of unemployment in Libya, which he stated is a long-standing problem and a significant factor contributing to past unrest. He pointed out that substantial investments in education programs abroad are essential to alleviate unemployment and improve national security. Additionally, there will be support for 31,000 students to undertake one year of English language training abroad, targeting sufficient TOEFL or IELTS scores for university acceptance.
This financial commitment marks a significant increase from the previous budget of LD 1 billion allocated for 12,500 students studying abroad, primarily those who left prior to the civil war in February 2011. Initially, the funding was restricted to those endorsed by the Warriors Affairs Commission, yet public feedback prompted the GNC to broaden eligibility to include women and individuals with disabilities.
In response to the high volume of applications, the government has requested state institutions to nominate deserving students and faculty for international study opportunities. This educational support is part of a broader initiative addressing Libya’s unemployment crisis, which the Ministry of Labour reported has affected approximately 340,000 people. The GNC has proposed an additional LD 7 billion to initiate small and medium enterprises and large joint projects.
While there is recognition of the potential benefits of studying abroad, critics argue this approach overlooks the necessity of investing in local educational institutions to provide sustainable growth. The state of higher education in Libya has faced criticism regarding overcrowded conditions and substandard teaching, suggesting that reforms within domestic institutions may be equally important.
The GNC’s proposal to allocate LD 3.28 billion for sending Libyans abroad showcases a strategic move aimed at improving education and tackling unemployment. With a focus on professional and English language training to bolster job opportunities, it reflects a commitment to enhancing national security. However, the mixed reception regarding the investment raises critical questions about the long-term implications for Libya’s local education system.
Original Source: thepienews.com
