Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development Dr. Mariyam Marya has revealed the government's intentions to formulate policies aimed at expanding access to higher education across various sectors, particularly in agriculture. The minister unveiled these plans during a training programme organised for the staff of Agro National Corporation, focusing on sustainable agriculture.
Addressing participants at the inauguration of the programme, Minister Dr. Marya emphasised the importance of providing local citizens with advanced education in fields critical to economic development. The minister expressed confidence this initiative would lead to increased national productivity in the near future. She expressed hope the AgroNat programme would train more individuals in the industry, thereby enhancing overall sector capabilities. The minister further emphasised the importance of conducting similar programmes, to upskill the employees within the industry.
Highlighting the Maldives' heavy reliance on imported fruits and vegetables, Minister Dr. Marya stressed the imperative of enabling local agricultural products to compete effectively with imports. The minister stressed the need for agricultural workers to be proficient in technology and skilled in producing cost-effective, high-quality goods to expand the industry. She additionally underscored the crucial importance of training agricultural workers regarding the healthy amounts of chemicals utilised and alternative techniques to ensure healthy productions of goods.
The training programme for Agro National Corporation employees spans one year. While 14 participants partake in the programme, there are plans to extend technical assistance to others within the industry through trained personnel.