Young people must take personal initiative and actively participate in transforming the Maldives into a developed nation, Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef said.
Speaking as the guest of honour at this year’s Villa College Student Achievement Awards ceremony, the vice president centred his address on the essential role graduates play as productive members of society. He opened the proceedings, convened to confer special honours on outstanding graduates, by extending his congratulations to the award recipients.
Graduates must harness their acquired knowledge and skills to pioneer innovative solutions across sectors vital to national progress, the vice president observed. Students must now direct their intellect towards developing permanent solutions for pressing societal needs, he noted, expressing confidence in their commitment to that objective. While several graduates already occupy positions of responsibility within the workforce, others are entering the professional sphere for the first time, where their innovative thinking will be essential to raising service standards across both public and private institutions.
In his address, the vice president highlighted President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s strategic vision to elevate the Maldives to developed-country status, calling on youth to take the lead in achieving a goal shared by every citizen. President Muizzu, he explained, has already initiated efforts to transform the country into a fully developed nation by the year 2040.
"To achieve this vision, the assistance of all of you is required," the vice president stated. "In particular, young people must take the initiative, utilise innovative thinking, and personally participate in this endeavour."
Observing a large graduating cohort underscores the national priority placed on resolving domestic challenges, the vice president underscored the fundamental importance of the education system. He urged graduates to prioritise modern tools and technical proficiency in their future professional endeavours.
The vice president concluded his address by acknowledging the institutional milestones achieved by Villa College, conveying gratitude to its founder, Qasim Ibrahim, and the administration for their contributions. During the ceremony, the vice president presented the Qasim Ibrahim Award for Excellence to the distinguished graduates.