The Maldives Fishermen Association has inaugurated the Young Fisher's Club at Ihavandhoo School to provide training and education in the fisheries sector to students. Ihavandhoo in Haa Alifu Atoll is the first island where a Young Fisher's Club has been established.
The fishermen association initiated a plan in 2016 to create youth interest in fishing and provide training in the sector. However, after various challenges, the practical work of providing training and education in the fisheries sector to students in schools has now begun.
During the inauguration ceremony, President of the Maldives Fishermen's Association Maizan Ahmed Manik said the fisheries sector in the Maldives has improved significantly. He said the club is not only teaching the children fishing skills but also teaching them skills related to weather and navigation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Principal of Ihavandhoo School Mohamed Abdul Samad said one of the best characteristics of the club is that it teaches students many skills that are now included in the curriculum. He said that self-development, constructive thinking, the use of technology, and modern resources are important for the development of children.
The club is aimed at students in grades seven and eight. The decision was made to provide career guidance to students before choosing a stream from grade nine. The club was inaugurated with about 50 students consisting mostly of girls. The club is currently undergoing special training sessions for the children with sessions already being conducted on climate change, weather forecasting, and fishing skills.