The government has commissioned the construction of a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centre and a 'Dhanaal' or student accommodation facility in Kulhudhuffushi, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, as well as another student accommodation facility in Dhuvaafaru, Raa Atoll. These projects, overseen by the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, are critical components of the administration’s broader initiative to enhance higher education infrastructure nationwide.
A ceremonial event marked the official handover of these projects to two state-owned enterprises. The Road Development Corporation (RDC) will lead the development of the TVET centre, while FENAKA Corporation, a utilities provider, will oversee the construction of the student accommodation in Dhuvaafaru.
The TVET centre project in Kulhudhuffushi includes the establishment of student accommodation, ensuring students have access to comprehensive facilities. Similarly, the student accommodation project in Dhuvaafaru encompasses the development of a training area.
These initiatives aim to provide higher education and vocational training courses of varying standards, as stated by the higher education ministry. The projects are crucial for the industrial sector, focusing on equipping individuals with the necessary skills for employment in these fields, it added.
According to the ministry, a land area of 35,777 square feet has been designated for the TVET centre in Kulhudhuffushi. The facility will include a multi-purpose workshop, seven classrooms, an Information Communication Technology (ICT) laboratory, administration and staff areas, dedicated spaces for student services, an auditorium, study rooms, meeting rooms, and a library.
The accompanying student accommodation will provide 32 shared rooms, meal provisions through a kitchen and dining area, laundry services, and a sitting area with recreational activities, including a gymnasium. Additional amenities will include toilets, prayer rooms, lifts, and other essential facilities.
In Dhuvaafaru, a 15,000 square foot land area has been allocated for the training area and student accommodation, the ministry said. This facility will include 31 shared rooms, kitchen and dining areas, laundry services, and sports and entertainment facilities for the students.
These projects are part of a broader effort to make higher education and training opportunities more accessible to the public. The government is also developing junior colleges in Dhidhdhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll, and Velidhoo, Noonu Atoll, along with a TVET centre in Alifushi, Raa Atoll.
Providing technical and vocational education and training, alongside skills development opportunities for Maldivians, remains a top priority for the current administration. The establishment of the TVET centre and student accommodations in Kulhudhuffushi and Dhuvaafaru is expected to significantly alleviate the challenges faced by students from these islands and neighbouring regions in pursuing higher education and training.