MINDCo and Bank of Maldives have jointly launched the Maldives AI Lab, the National AI and Data Competency Centre, as part of the government’s Maldives 2.0 digital transformation agenda.
The initiative was officially launched during the opening ceremony of Co.Lab 26 by Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan.
Speaking at the launch, Ihusaan said the Maldives must play an active role in shaping how artificial intelligence is developed and used across the country.
“Maldives cannot have a future where AI just happens to us. Through Maldives AI Lab it will happen with us, by us, for us,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of developing local technology talent, ensuring human accountability in public services, and strengthening public-private partnerships to improve government efficiency and economic resilience.
According to MINDCo and BML, the Maldives AI Lab is designed to build long-term national capability in artificial intelligence, data, and digital innovation through cross-sector collaboration.
The launch coincided with the start of Co.Lab 26, a four-day national programme bringing together government leaders, private sector representatives, developers, and technical experts to shape the country’s AI strategy. The first two days focus on identifying and prioritising AI use-cases based on public value, feasibility, and responsible implementation, while the remaining days feature a mentored hackathon.
MINDCo Managing Director said the establishment of the centre would help move the Maldives from fragmented AI initiatives to a structured national framework focused on sovereign AI and data capabilities.
She added that the initiative would help future-proof public investments, develop local expertise, and improve the efficiency of public service delivery.
Interested participants can register for the Co.Lab 26 hackathon through colab.mv
