Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham has announced that practical works on the Empowerment Hub for persons with disabilities will begin within a week.

The Minister made the announcement while speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office on Monday to brief the media on the Ministry’s ongoing initiatives.

The Empowerment Hub is designed to provide training and skills development opportunities for persons with disabilities in an inclusive environment. Targeting individuals aged 18 to 40, the hub aims to support skills enhancement, work experience, and pathways towards economic independence.

Dr Aishath Shiham said the hub has been conceptualised to allow persons with disabilities to learn, work, and engage in activities while remaining close to their families. She noted that the facility will include opportunities to learn and practise job related skills, including the establishment of a computer centre where participants with aptitude in information technology can receive specialised training.

The Minister also said the hub will include dedicated spaces for organisations working in the disability sector, addressing long standing challenges faced by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in securing suitable venues for meetings and activities. Part of the facility will be designated as a shared meeting and collaboration space for groups operating in the field.

Construction work is expected to be completed by mid next year, the Minister stated. She expressed hope that the Empowerment Hub will become a supportive and accessible space for persons with disabilities and their families.

The 5,500 square foot facility, to be developed in Hulhumalé Phase II, will include hospitality and culinary training areas, an inclusive café to provide hands on work experience, and a retail outlet open to the public to sell products made by persons with disabilities.

In addition, the hub will feature three workshop spaces, a computer and information technology training centre, an activity room, and a multimedia room to facilitate social engagement and skills based programmes.