Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) has shared information with the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development on the work of its volunteers in the Maldives and their contributions to the country's education sector.
JOCV shared the information during a meeting with State Minister of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development Dr Ahmed Mohamed at the Ministry. The discussions focused on the activities carried out by JOCV volunteers across the country and the support they provide to the education sector.
Six JOCV volunteers currently work at schools and education institutions across the Maldives. They serve at Raa Hulhudhuffaaru School, Laamu Atoll Education Centre, Nellaidhoo School, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll Education Centre, Afeefuddin School and the Department of Inclusive Education.
Their work forms part of the JOCV programme, which has operated in the Maldives since 1982. More than 370 volunteers have served in different sectors across the country through the programme, making significant contributions to Maldivian communities.
The programme resumed after the global COVID-19 pandemic interrupted its activities. Since its resumption, volunteers have supported the education of children with disabilities and contributed to health and sports activities at schools on different islands, including handball, baseball and athletics.
JOCV has also supported the development of practical skills by teaching music, handicrafts and cooking.
During the meeting, State Minister Dr Ahmed thanked JOCV for the benefits the programme brings to the Maldives' education sector and for the valuable services its volunteers provide. He also assured JOCV of the Ministry's continued support.
Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives Ishigami Rumiko attended the meeting. Senior officials from the Embassy of Japan, JICA and the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development also took part.