President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated a new State Utility Skills Academy in K. Thulusdhoo, reinforcing national efforts to build a skilled utility workforce and advance engineering capabilities in the Maldives. The President was joined at the ceremony by STELCO Managing Director Ahmed Shamah Rasheed and senior officials of the company.
Developed by the State Electric Company Limited to inspire engineering talent and improve service quality across the country, the Academy represents a strategic investment in modern infrastructure, renewable technology, and human resource development within the utility sector.
The center features classrooms, a workshop, a laboratory, and dedicated accommodation facilities. Built at a cost of MVR 5 million, the entire construction effort was completed by STELCO’s own employees. The Academy can train up to 50 students at a time, enabling continuous skill development for technicians and engineers serving power, water, and sewerage operations.
A major highlight of the facility is a renewable energy laboratory equipped with resources valued at 200,000 US dollars, donated by China’s Yantai Dongfang Wisdom Electric Co. Ltd. This installation will support training in solar and wind technologies as the Maldives expands sustainable energy solutions.
As part of building strong academic partnerships, STELCO and the Maldives National University signed a memorandum of understanding on 26 October 2025 to conduct courses and training programs at the Academy. Additional institutions will join in providing expert-led practical learning.
Training programs will initially cover six key fields. These include mechanical engineering with a focus on generator maintenance, automotive engineering for vehicle servicing, water and sewerage system operations, automation engineering to support industrial efficiency, and administrative services to strengthen internal systems and software use. Areas of study will expand in future phases to align with fast evolving utility industry standards.
STELCO outlined multiple objectives for the Academy. These include enhancing in-house capability for asset maintenance to reduce operational costs and service interruptions, improving safety standards, expanding renewable energy expertise, preserving technical knowledge for future generations, and creating platforms for innovation and invention. The center also aims to collaborate with youth through schools and universities to foster early interest in engineering careers.
Positioned as a regional academic hub in the Maldives utility sector, the State Utility Skills Academy is expected to serve not only STELCO staff but also professionals from other companies and institutions. The initiative aligns with the Administration’s commitment to ensuring reliable utility services and advancing a future shaped by skilled Maldivian talent and modern technology.
