Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham has announced that 110 children previously in State care have been reunited with their families under the Government’s “A Family for Every Child” programme. 

Speaking at a at a press conference held at the President’s Office, Minister Dr Shiham stated that the programme is one of the Government’s key commitments in the social sector, with efforts focused on returning children to safe family environments wherever possible. She said the Ministry is responsible for caring for children removed from households due to various circumstances, and the priority is to rebuild family connections once appropriate safeguards are in place.

The Minister highlighted the developmental impact of prolonged separation from family, noting that children away from their homes may lose essential social and emotional skills. She added that the rising number of successful reintegration cases reflects improved support systems and cooperation between authorities and families. According to the Ministry, reunified children are now being monitored to ensure they continue receiving proper care.

Minister Dr Shiham confirmed that the reintegration process has been ongoing since November 2023, aligning with the President’s pledge to secure stable family environments for vulnerable children.

Alongside the reintegration initiative, the Government is also working to improve child safety and access to opportunities across the atolls. The Minister stated that safe environments have been established for children who remain under State care, including access to support services designed to prepare them for independence.

As part of these efforts, 23 students have been offered internship opportunities and 40 others have received vocational and skills-based training to help them transition into community life. The Minister also noted that several students have completed the Maldives National Service Programme, describing it as a significant achievement in helping young people become self-reliant and active members of society.