President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has assured that the state budget of 2018 will focus on providing more opportunities for Maldivian youth, in housing, education, sports infrastructure and job opportunities. The President made the statement while speaking at the event organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, held to celebrate this year's National Youth Day.
President Yameen stated that the positive energy of youth is essential and that they should actively participate in the development of Maldives. Youth should be the embodiment of national progress, through active participation, added President Yameen.
While speaking at the event, President Yameen highlighted that the youth who received the awards are role models and that one should aim be a role model to the other. Reflecting on the Youth Awards, the President said that every youth should aim to be recognised for such achievements.
The President also highlighted on-going work towards the commencement of building an international football academy, in collaboration with Football Association of Maldives (FAM) adding that the government aims to encourage more youth to represent the country in different international tournaments, by investing in the sports infrastructure.
During the ceremony President Yameen presented Youth Awards in 8 different categories. National Youth day is celebrated on November 17 every year.