MMA launches Tamweel FinLit Fest 2025

The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has announced the launch of the 2025 Tamweel FinLit Fest, an ambitious initiative aimed at enhancing financial literacy, responsible money management, and awareness of Islamic finance across the Maldives. Through a vibrant lineup of competitions and creative challenges, the festival seeks to engage students, youth, and the wider public in building a more informed, inclusive, and values-driven society.

The MMA Tamweel Finlit Festival was inaugurated by the Minister of Education, Dr. Ismail Shafeeu, at a special function held at the Maldives Monetary Authority. In his remarks, the Minister highlighted the importance of building a financially aware society.

The festival will feature six major events: the FinLit Challenge, EconQuest Debate Competition, Impact Pitch Challenge, FutureFinance Essay Competition, Values & Vision Art Showcase, and the Short Video Challenge. These activities combine creativity, critical thinking, and innovation to inspire participants to approach finance not just as a technical skill, but as a tool for social and economic transformation.

Youth at the Heart of Financial Literacy

The MMA Tamweel FinLit Challenge, a league-style quiz competition, will target youth aged 18–25, testing their knowledge of saving, budgeting, halal investing, risk-sharing, and the foundations of Islamic financial systems. By promoting ethical and responsible financial practices, the challenge aims to equip participants with real-world skills while fostering a fun, engaging learning environment.

Similarly, the EconQuest Debate Competition will invite participants aged 16–25 to tackle pressing economic issues in spirited, evidence-based debates. From sustainability and inclusion to global economic trends, young debaters will have the opportunity to present innovative solutions to national and global challenges, strengthening their civic awareness and critical thinking.

Encouraging Innovation in Islamic Finance

One of the festival’s flagship events, the Impact Pitch Challenge, is designed to uncover pioneering, Shariah-compliant solutions to advance financial literacy and inclusion in the Maldives. Open to participants aged 18 and above, the challenge will focus on three key areas: developing engaging financial literacy tools, creating inclusive financial solutions for underserved communities, and innovating Islamic finance through ethical fintech.

Shortlisted participants will undergo mentoring and bootcamps before pitching their ideas in person on 15 November 2025. Winners stand to receive up to MVR 30,000 in cash prizes, alongside potential seed funding, collaboration opportunities, and capacity-building support.

Inspiring Creativity and Awareness

The festival also includes platforms for creative expression. The FutureFinance Essay Competition will encourage school students to envision a financial system built on values, sustainability, and inclusion. Meanwhile, the Values & Vision Art Showcase will invite young artists to portray the future of ethical and equitable finance through visual art.

In the digital sphere, the Short Video Challenge will tap into the popularity of short-form video platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts. Participants will create 15–60 second videos to raise awareness about financial literacy and Islamic finance, making complex concepts accessible, relatable, and shareable.

Building a Financially Aware Nation

According to the MMA, the Tamweel FinLit Fest reflects the institution’s commitment to equipping Maldivians—especially youth—with the knowledge and skills to navigate an increasingly complex financial landscape. By combining education with creativity and innovation, the festival aims to nurture a new generation of financially responsible, value-driven citizens who can contribute to an inclusive and sustainable economic future.

MMA has stated that details on event registration, eligibility, and competition timelines will be announced in the coming weeks.