The National Youth Conference commenced in Malé on Monday with 93 participants from diverse backgrounds, bringing together youth representatives to discuss key issues affecting them and contribute to the formulation of a national youth policy.

The opening ceremony of the two-day conference, held at the Youth Hub in Malé, was attended by Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts Ibrahim Waheed, along with senior officials from the Ministry. The conference is organised by the Presidential Youth Advisory Board in collaboration with the Ministry.

According to the Ministry, the conference aims to identify challenges faced by young people, explore potential solutions, and gather views and recommendations to support the development of a comprehensive national youth policy. Participants representing various fields are expected to share experiences and perspectives on youth-related issues during the sessions.

The programme includes a series of workshops conducted across six thematic areas, providing a platform for discussion and collaboration among participants. The outcomes of these sessions are intended to inform future policy direction and youth development initiatives.

The Government continues to implement a range of initiatives aimed at empowering and developing young people. These include programmes under the Youth Hub initiative, which focuses on talent development, recreational activities, mental wellbeing, and youth counselling services to support young people facing various challenges.