The government plans to develop policies to broaden access to higher education across various sectors, with a particular focus on agriculture, according to Dr. Mariyam Marya, Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development. The announcement came during the inauguration of a sustainable agriculture training programme for staff of the Agro National Corporation.
Minister Dr. Marya, addressing the participants, highlighted the critical importance of providing advanced education to local citizens in fields vital to economic development. She expressed confidence that this initiative would significantly increase national productivity in the near future. The minister also emphasised the need for similar programmes to upskill employees within the industry, thereby enhancing overall sector capabilities.
The minister pointed out the Maldives’ heavy reliance on imported fruits and vegetables, stressing the importance of empowering local agricultural products to compete effectively with imports. She underscored the necessity for agricultural workers to be proficient in technology and skilled in producing cost-effective, high-quality goods. Furthermore, she highlighted the importance of training agricultural workers in the proper use of chemicals and alternative techniques to ensure the healthy production of goods.
The one-year training programme for Agro National Corporation employees currently has 14 participants, with plans to extend technical assistance to others in the industry through the trained personnel. This initiative aims to build a more self-sufficient and competitive agricultural sector in the Maldives.
Minister Dr. Marya’s announcement marks a significant step towards enhancing the country’s agricultural education and skills development, promising a more sustainable and productive future for the sector.
