Vice President Faisal Naseem has stated empowering youth and increasing youth participation in developmental activities were among the first initiatives of the administrations. He made the statement at Ran Aharu 2019, a special celebratory event held by Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment.
Speaking at the event held at the Dharubaaruge convention centre, Vice President Naseem noted promoting a healthy lifestyle was one of the first campaigns run by the administration. He added the administration gives high precedence on developing sports and promoting a healthy lifestyle among the people.
Emphasising on the numerous triumphs in the field of sports last year, Vice President Naseem acknowledged it is an accomplishment for Maldives to be chosen to host the Indian Ocean Island Games (IOIG) in 2023.
In his speech, the vice president noted 2019 had been a year in which the government held a multitude of programmes aimed at the development of youth in many aspects such as the leadership, awareness and several sports competitions. He urged all youth to promote a caring and compassionate society and called on youth to always remain thoughtful and conscious of the happenings within the society.
At the event, Vice President Naseem unveiled the Youth Award, a special recognition marked for individuals who excel in serving youth and the society through education, skill and workmanship. In addition, the vice president unveiled an award in the field of sports intended to recognise the achievements of athletes who excel in sports and to mark sporting achievements on a national level. He also unveiled the civil society award, which is given to recognise civil society organizations which contribute to the wellbeing of the society through community empowerment, volunteer work and contribution to the development of the nation.
All three awards are to be awarded annually by Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment.