President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration is ushering in a transformative era for Maldivian youth, focusing on digital empowerment, economic opportunity, and national service. Member of Parliament for South Maafannu, Abdulla Rifau (Bochey), highlighted these initiatives during last night event at the PNC headquarters.
“President Muizzu has demonstrated that this government listens to the youth,” Rifau stated. “Young people were the biggest stakeholders in his victory.”
Empowering Through Apprenticeships
The National Apprenticeship Programme has already seen over 300 young individuals complete training and enter the job market. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing youth with practical skills and opportunities.
Digitalization for a Connected Future
President Muizzu’s “Maldives 2.0” initiative seeks to digitize public services, enhancing accessibility and efficiency. “If we look at the Maldives, especially the youth, everyone has the latest phone in their hand,” Rifau noted. “When we find ways to do business, transactions, and government work through that phone, that’s when the real benefits will come.”
Monetizing Creativity
The government is exploring partnerships with platforms like TikTok to enable content creators to monetize their work, turning likes and views into income. “Earning money through platforms like TikTok is now a path available for youth,” Rifau said. “The government is working to facilitate this opportunity.”
Entrepreneurship via Temu
In collaboration with Maldives Post, the government has facilitated avenues for youth to engage in e-commerce through platforms like Temu. This move aims to empower young entrepreneurs to start and grow businesses with minimal barriers.
National Service Programme
The National Service Programme, targeting youth aged 16 to 28, focuses on instilling discipline, ethical values, and a sense of national pride. Participants will receive training that prepares them for various roles, including contributions to national security and community development. “Our youth should always think about how to make two rufiyaa from one rufiyaa,” Rifau emphasized.
Addressing Youth Concerns
Referring to recent youth-led protests in Malé, Rifau acknowledged President Muizzu’s responsiveness to their concerns. “When the President listened to the concerns of the youth in those protests and provided solutions, the opposition MDP entered the protests and ruined them,” he claimed.
Rifau also accused current opposition MDP president Abdulla Shahid of undermining Maldives tourism in his work abroad. “They will not allow the opportunity to destroy the country’s tourism,” he asserted.
As the government continues to implement these initiatives, the focus remains on equipping Maldivian youth with the tools and opportunities to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
