Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives have expanded their Girls to Code programme to Eydhafushi in Baa Atoll, offering young women an opportunity to develop coding, artificial intelligence (AI) and web development skills through a seven-week training initiative.
The programme, which began in October, is currently underway, providing participants with practical technology training, mentorship and career guidance designed to prepare them for opportunities in the growing digital sector.
This year’s edition introduces an enhanced curriculum that incorporates AI concepts alongside foundational coding, website development and other essential digital skills.
Open to women aged between 15 and 35, the programme does not require previous coding experience, making it accessible to beginners interested in exploring careers in technology.
The seven-week course follows a hybrid learning model, combining an in-person bootcamp with virtual classes, mentoring sessions and career development activities.
Participants are expected to acquire the skills needed to independently develop websites and digital projects by the end of the programme, while gaining a better understanding of educational and professional opportunities in the technology industry.
The initiative also seeks to build confidence among young women who may have had limited exposure to programming and other technical disciplines.
The Eydhafushi programme began with a Tech & Beyond session, bringing together technology professionals and industry leaders from Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives.
During the opening sessions, speakers shared their professional experiences, career journeys and insights into the skills required to pursue opportunities in the technology sector.
Bishaara Hameed, Senior Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility at Dhiraagu, said the programme was intended to help young women develop the knowledge and confidence needed to participate in an increasingly technology-driven economy.
She highlighted the inclusion of AI training and mentorship as important additions that would help participants connect classroom learning with practical applications and career opportunities.
Bishaara said Dhiraagu was pleased to extend the programme to Eydhafushi as part of its efforts to make advanced digital skills more accessible to women across the Maldives.
Mihna Zahir, Vice President of Women in Tech Maldives, also welcomed the programme’s expansion to Baa Atoll, expressing appreciation to Feyli NGO, Baa Atoll Education Centre (BAEC) and the Eydhafushi community for supporting the initiative.
She said the programme aimed to encourage more young women to explore technology, strengthen their coding and AI capabilities and gain the confidence to turn their ideas into practical digital projects.
Girls to Code was launched in 2019 as a joint initiative by Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives to expand opportunities for women interested in technology and digital careers.
Since its introduction, the programme has been conducted in several parts of the country, including Fuvahmulah City, Thinadhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Kulhudhuffushi City, Laamu Atoll, Dhidhdhoo in Haa Alifu Atoll and Malé City.
More than 100 young women have successfully completed the programme since its inception.
The latest edition builds on those earlier initiatives by introducing AI alongside established coding and web development training, reflecting the growing importance of emerging technologies in education and employment.
Through the Eydhafushi programme, Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives aim to provide participants with practical experience, professional guidance and a foundation for pursuing further studies or careers in technology.
