Government to Introduce National Certificates in Eight Cultural Craft Fields

The Minister of Higher Education, Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed, has announced that a decision has been made to introduce cultural craft-related courses in eight specialised fields.

The announcement was made during a press conference held at the President’s Office. The minister stated that, in line with the pledge of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to establish national standards, work has commenced on developing Occupational Competency Standards in the selected areas.

The proposed programmes include the National Certificate in Feyli Weaving, National Certificate in Kasabu Weaving, National Certificate in Thundukunaa Weaving, National Certificate in Blacksmithing, National Certificate in Carpentry, National Certificate in Weaving Cultural Items such as fans, rukufathi and sataa, National Certificate in Saanthi Weaving, and the National Certificate in Lacquerwork.

Certificate Level 3 qualifications will be awarded in each of the eight fields. The minister stated that the first draft prepared by the initial advisory committee of the Maldives National Skills Development Authority has been completed.

It was also announced that members of the technical panel and sector councils of the authority will receive an allowance of MVR 500 for each meeting attended, following a decision by the President.