The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has launched a new Youth Internship Programme aimed at increasing youth participation in the fisheries sector, with five young Maldivians selected to undergo three months of hands-on training aboard some of the country’s largest fishing vessels.

The announcement was made during a ceremony where Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam met with the selected participants and awarded their letters of intent. The programme is conducted under the World Bank–supported Transforming Fisheries Sector in South-West Indian Ocean Region and Maldives Project (TRANSFORM Project).

Speaking at the event, Minister Shiyam said the active involvement of young Maldivians is essential for the survival and future sustainability of the fisheries industry. He highlighted that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has prioritised empowering youth and ensuring that a new generation of skilled fishermen emerges to carry the industry forward. The minister described the internship as a key step toward fulfilling this Administration’s commitment to increase youth engagement in national fisheries.

The Ministry revealed that seven applicants expressed interest in the programme, with five candidates selected following interviews. All participants completed preparatory training conducted with the support of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and Coast Guard, including a 36-hour General Navigation Course held in Raa Dhuvaafaru.

The selected youths, aged under 24 and not previously registered in the fisheries sector, will now embark on a structured three-month internship on high-performing fishing vessels equipped with modern navigation and fishing technology. Over the course of the programme, they will train under experienced fishermen and vessel crews to gain practical, industry-level skills.

According to the Ministry, the vessels chosen for the internship ranked among the top earners in the fishing industry last year. The youth cohort is expected to depart for onboard training in the coming weeks.

Minister Shiyam emphasised that the initiative is designed not only to teach practical fishing skills but also to demonstrate the opportunities available to young Maldivians within a sector deeply connected to the country’s identity, culture and economy. He stressed the importance of reducing foreign dependency aboard local vessels and ensuring that Maldivians remain at the forefront of the industry.