The Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare has announced that work is underway to complete the Empowerment Hub for persons with disabilities, with services expected to commence in July.

The facility is being developed on the first floor of Aman Udhares Tower 7 in Hulhumalé Phase II, with construction having begun in January. The hub is designed to support individuals with disabilities transitioning into society after formal education by providing opportunities to gain work experience and achieve economic independence.

Programmes at the centre will include training in culinary and hospitality services, retail, and the IT sector, alongside skill development initiatives such as craftsmanship. The facility will also feature a dedicated space to display and sell products created by participants.

The ministry said that the hub will serve as a platform for civil society organisations representing persons with disabilities to conduct activities, meetings and support programmes aimed at enhancing inclusion and wellbeing.

The centre has been designed with accessibility in mind, incorporating tactile pathways for the visually impaired, as well as accessible toilets, prayer rooms and sensory rooms for individuals with autism.

Once operational, the hub will be the first facility in the Maldives to offer a range of disability-focused services under one roof, bringing together multiple stakeholders to support participation and inclusion in the community.

The project is funded through the Zakat Fund of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in collaboration with relevant Government bodies.