Interviews have begun for applicants to the fifth round of the Young Khatib Training Programme, with 140 candidates advancing after meeting the programme's eligibility requirements.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments said 160 applications were received for the latest intake, with applicants from every atoll across the Maldives. To make the process more accessible, interviews for candidates living outside Malé and Addu City are being conducted online.

The Young Khatib Training Programme is one of the ministry's flagship initiatives aimed at developing a new generation of qualified Khatibs to serve communities across the country.

Since the programme was introduced, four rounds have been completed, producing 621 trained young Khatibs.

The ministry said the programme is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to serve as Khatibs while helping address the shortage of qualified religious leaders on islands through a sustainable, long-term approach.