Discussions have been held regarding initiating training programs to strengthen and reinforce the local tourism industry workforce.

In a virtual meeting with relevant ministers on Thursday afternoon, Vice President Faisal Naseem discussed the initiation of nationwide short-term training programs with the Minister of Tourism Ali Waheed, Minister of Higher Education Dr. Ibrahim Hassan and representatives from relevant councils and institutions.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih intends to prioritize the employment of Maldivians in all trades and industries in the Maldives, said the vice president, who added that the government’s purpose is to train and develop the national workforce to maximize opportunities for the citizens.

Higher Education Minister Dr. Hassan provided information regarding the training programs during the meeting, having shed light on how it was initiated through a study to identify human resource requirements.

He added that 20 Certificate III courses have been designed and are ready to be launched.

In addition to the theory components, the programs will include a practical component that will be completed on-site at tourist resorts, said Dr. Hassan.

Further, he highlighted that the practical component will help students gain hands-on experience and prepare them for employment.

Dr. Hassan went on to request assistance from the local councils to recruit students for enrollment in these programs.

During the meeting, Minister Waheed also noted that the tourism industry requires more hardworking locals and stressed on the need to conduct more training programs to develop their skills.

It is important to designate some tourism industry jobs exclusively for Maldivians, he said.

Updates regarding preparations to reopen the country’s borders to restart tourism were also shared during the virtual meeting.

VP Naseem applauded the work of the councilors for their resilience in bettering the lives of the public and urged those in attendance to coordinate to make the program a success and steer the country towards a brighter future.