Ministry of Economic Development has awarded certificates to the 41 divers who completed the diving instructor course initiated under the Up-skilling and Training Programme.
The economic ministry launched a programme to build trained and competent youth for various job opportunities in the Maldives The programme, which is funded by the World Bank, is being implemented in collaboration with senior officials and companies in various sectors.
The diver training programme was conducted in collaboration with Ocean Junkies, Dive Club Maldives, Ocean Warriors, Divers Lodge, and Divers Desk. The first batch of participants completed the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Instructor Development Course (IDC). The ceremony was attended by PADI Regional Manager Matt Wenger, and representatives from the economic ministry and dive centres.
The certificates were awarded by Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail. Following the awarding of certificates, Minister Fayyaz stated that the programme is an important initiative aimed at facilitating skill upgrading for the unemployed and self-employed as well as providing professional-level employment opportunities.
As per the economic ministry, another 150 individuals are already being trained in the programme. The programme is 100% sponsored by the government and each participant receives a stipend allowance of USD325. The ministry said applications for diving courses are still open and interested applicants can apply through the Job Centre.