At a certificate handover ceremony for the Youth Internship Programme, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam stated that the long-term strength of the Maldives’ fishing industry depends on more young people entering the sector.
Addressing the participants, the Minister spoke about the value of a fisherman’s work and said that young Maldivians should take a more active role in operating local fishing vessels. He noted that greater youth participation is essential to reduce reliance on foreign workers and ensure that the sector remains a viable source of income for future generations.
The Youth Internship Programme aims to introduce young people to the fishing profession by offering hands-on experience on some of the country’s highest-earning fishing vessels. According to the Ministry, five youths have joined the programme and will spend three months working aboard selected boats. The vessels, chosen based on their earnings over the past year, are set to depart next week.
Minister Shiyam added that participants will gain practical skills while earning an income, and highlighted the government’s plans to create further opportunities for Maldivian youth in the fisheries sector, both locally and overseas.
