Minister Shiyam: Government Jobs Deterred Youth from Fishing
The government is currently working to establish a dedicated national registry for fishers to ensure they are formally recognized by the state and to address the challenges hindering youth participation in the industry. As part of efforts to boost interest among the younger generation through training programs, the government highlighted that a key objective is to facilitate easier access to essential banking and financial services for those working in the fisheries sector.
Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam speaking at an event. | RaajjeMV
Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has stated that one reason young people are losing interest in the fishing industry is due to the types of employment provided to island residents by previous administrations.
Responding to a journalist's inquiry regarding efforts to reduce the reliance on foreign labor within the fishing industry, the Minister stated that recruiting locals for such sectors remains a significant challenge. He emphasized that attracting Maldivians to the fisheries industry, in particular, presents specific difficulties.
The Minister stated that fishing is a unique profession and noted that Maldivians have become globally recognized for their expertise in pole-and-line fishing. However, he highlighted that there are currently significant challenges in attracting locals to the industry.
Consequently, the Minister stated that the government is conducting programs to increase youth interest in this industry. In this regard, Shiyam noted that a program involving five youths has already been conducted, emphasizing that the government's objective is to carry out these initiatives continuously.
Highlighting the reasons for the lack of youth interest in the industry, the Minister stated that one factor was the practice of previous administrations providing employment without considering the needs of such sectors. He further noted that another reason was the state's failure to formally recognize and acknowledge fishermen.
There are several reasons why young people lack interest in this industry. In the past, some companies granted employment indiscriminately, without assessing whether candidates were qualified captains or skilled crew members. These appointments were often made to achieve political leverage, and the widespread distribution of jobs within islands without regard for industry standards remains one of the primary reasons for this decline in interest.Minister of Fisheries Ahmed Shiyam
The Minister stated that despite their long-standing involvement in the industry, fishermen continue to face significant challenges in accessing banking and financial services.
The Minister stated that the government is prioritizing the formal registration of fishermen to ensure they are officially recognized by the state. He further noted that these efforts are expected to facilitate easier access to banking and financial services for those working in the fishing industry.
The fishing industry plays a vital role in the Maldivian economy. However, various stakeholders are expressing concern that the government is not doing enough to reduce the industry's reliance on foreign labor and increase local participation.
