More local youth need to be trained to fill high-level tourism sector jobs: VP Naseem

Private educational institutions and educators are required to pay special attention to ensure more locals in the youth community are trained to fill high-level jobs in the tourism industry, says Vice President Faisal Naseem.

Taking the podium at the Student Achievement Awards held at Villa College QI Campus, the vice president noted that there are many complaints regarding foreign workers taking over top tourism sector employment opportunities and urged the relevant stakeholders to increase training of capable and talented local youth for these jobs, which he described as a necessity.

VP Naseem stated that success “always” comes with the support and assistance of surrounding persons and added that he was happy to see students of all ages winning awards, which mirrors the lifelong love locals have for education and scholarship.

Villa College was also congratulated on its exemplary growth from humble beginnings following inception, to an internationally-recognized educational institution.

Highlighting that education is a national service that paves way for future generations to take over nation-building, VP Naseem stated that creating educated and capable youth remains one of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's key priorities.

This is reflected in several government initiatives including the free first-degree scheme, education loan schemes and presidential scholarships.

He went on to note that with the many urban development and infrastructure projects initiated by the government in inhabited islands across the nation, which pave way for an increase in demand for a technically skilled workforce, adding that the new developments open many windows for opportunities for locals.

With this being said, the Maldivian youth have been urged to make good use of the opportunities provided to them and to train and engage in technical vocations.

Thanking all private education institutions, especially Villa College for their work in helping to develop the nation, the vice president expressed hopes to see more decentralized educational facilities in the Maldives in the near future.

During the event, VP Naseem conferred the Gasim Ibrahim Award for Excellence to eight recipients and other awards including the Villa College Book Prize and the Medal and Industry Prize.

The event was joined by Aishath Mohamed Didi, Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services, Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, Minister of Tourism and Special Advisor on Social Policy at the President's Office, Dr Mustafa Lutfi alongside senior officials from government agencies and Villa College.