Efforts are underway to formulate the Maldives’ National Youth Policy.
The Presidential Youth Advisory Board has tasked the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM), with developing the main framework under the policy. The agreement was signed by Advisory Board’s Vice President, Fathmath Nazaha Nazeem on behalf of the board, while IUM was represented by its Dean of Centre for Research and Publications, Dr Aminath Shafiya.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Special Advisor to the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, Ahmed Nareesh, noted that many talented young people across the country remained unemployed. Nareesh emphasised the need to identify the areas where there are educated and capable youth, and provide them with opportunities. He noted that it is important to pay attention to such issues when formulating the National Youth Policy.
"There are many talented young people, and many capable individuals doing valuable work. However, they do not have jobs as they do not hold formal qualifications. We must find a way to certify their skills,” Nareesh said.
Speaking on the youth policy, Hussain Arubaan Fawaz, a member of the Youth Advisory Board, said IUM would build on previous research into youth issues when formulating the framework. The paper will combine the challenges identified in earlier studies and proposed solutions, he added.
"A national youth seminar will be held, during which a national youth network will be established at the seminar. The seminar will provide an opportunity for youth to voice their concerns and complaints in all areas, Arubaan said.
The Presidential Youth Advisory Board was established by President De Mohamed Muizzu on 12 August last year to advise the President on youth-related issues. Its mandate includes increasing youth participation in national affairs and ensuring young people’s voices are heard in discussions and in decision-making. One of the most important tasks of the board is the formulation of a National Youth Policy.