The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts Ibrahim Waheed has announced that youth hubs will be established in all Maldivian cities and designated urban centres next year, expanding access to recreational and educational facilities for young people nationwide.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office, the Minister said the initiative follows the opening of the first youth hub in Malé earlier this year, which has since hosted multiple activities and engagement programmes for young people. He stated that the Government intends to replicate the model across the country to increase access to similar facilities.

According to the Ministry, agreements have already been signed to establish youth hubs in Kulhudhuffushi City, Thinadhoo City, Addu City and Fuvahmulah City, while the concept will also be introduced in six additional urban centres. The Minister said these hubs will be designed to accommodate a range of activities beyond sports, noting that young people previously had limited access to such spaces outside Malé.

The Minister explained that the hubs will also include facilities for organisations and educational use. As part of the initiative, branches of the National Library will be developed within the hubs, providing study areas and classrooms. Two rooms in the Malé hub have already been allocated for school students, who may access the spaces free of charge with identification.

Minister Waheed said the project aims to broaden opportunities for young people to participate in community activities, access resources and utilise public spaces more effectively. He added that the initiative reflects a shift towards providing diverse recreational and learning environments rather than focusing solely on sports facilities.