Government Launches New Training Courses to Support People With Disabilities
A man assists an elderly person in a wheelchair along a shaded, tree-lined path | Photo: MV+
The Ministry of Social and Family Development has introduced new training initiatives aimed at empowering people with disabilities, enhancing their financial independence, and creating wider employment opportunities.
A key element of the programme is the Job Readiness Programme, launched in collaboration with the Care Society, which focuses on equipping participants with administrative and office-related skills. The initiative seeks to address the lack of formal qualifications, one of the main barriers faced by people with disabilities in securing employment. Those not immediately prepared for the workplace will be offered internship opportunities.
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In addition to this, the government has announced new courses in partnership with Maldives Polytechnic. These include Certificate Level 3 programmes lasting four to six months, while shorter courses of one to two months will also be available.
Work is ongoing to finalise the National Disability Registry, which will gather detailed information on the needs of the community to deliver targeted assistance. A supporting database is also being developed to monitor changes in the lives of people with disabilities and ensure timely provision of services.
Since 2011, the government has provided a monthly allowance for people with disabilities. The allowance was increased in 2023 to US$195 per month.
