President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, while speaking during the function held at Dharubaaruge convention centre to mark International Women’s Day, pledged Administration support and corporation on further empowering women.
In his speech, the President emphasised that the hard work undertaken by women within their communities does not go not unrecognized. The foundation of Maldives’ socio-economic growth were based on women and their hard work, the President acknowledged.
The President also touched on the invaluable efforts by the Maldives’ first President Sumuvvul Ameer Mohamed Ameen Dhoshimeyna Kilegefaanu to promote and empower women in Maldives. He further recognized that the norm of formal women’s education began during President Ameen’s term.
“The true character of men is judged by the manner in which they engage with women within families and society,” the President added. He appealed to all Maldivians to be supportive and helpful in the endeavors carried out by women.
The President also, during today’s function, conferred the Rehendi Award to this year’s recipients, in recognition of their outstanding service to national. First Lady Fathimath Ibrahim presented the commemorative brooches to the recipients.
This year, four women from social, economic and political fields won the award. Ifham Hussein won the award for her outstanding service in teaching and training of children and kids with special needs since 1993. The only Maldivian woman to hold a Master's Degree in Quran and Sunnah, Saamiya Zakariyya won the award for her social work, while Nazeera Ibrahim won the award in the field of politics and general services. Furthermore, Aminath Majeedha won the award for her work in economic development.
The President was accompanied at the function by First Lady Fathimath Ibrahim, Vice President Abdulla Jihad, Cabinet Ministers and senior officials of his administration.