Youth Inclusion Key to Sustainable Development, President Says 

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that providing young people with opportunities at every stage of decision-making is the most constructive, sustainable and meaningful approach to national development.

He made the remarks yesterday while addressing the “Youth Coffee with the President” session, held to conclude the two-day National Youth Conference jointly organised by the Presidential Youth Advisory Board and the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts.

advertisement

The President said youth play a central role in both present and future national development, adding that long-term progress depends on listening to and incorporating young people’s views today.

According to the President’s Office, during the session, six groups from the conference presented proposals across six thematic areas, followed by discussions. President Muizzu responded by outlining the Government’s perspectives on the issues raised and the recommendations submitted.

He highlighted the need for structured youth participation in decision-making, noting that youth engagement in the Maldives has historically lacked an organised framework, the President’s Office said. He said this gap was addressed in his manifesto through the establishment of the Presidential Youth Advisory Board, adding that despite challenges, the Board has remained active and its role will continue to be strengthened.

The President also referred to concerns raised by young participants about the low level of youth-led business activity. He said the Government is addressing barriers faced by young entrepreneurs through education reforms and by creating clearer pathways for those seeking to enter business after completing their studies. As part of these efforts, he noted that a vocational pathway has now been incorporated into the A-Level curriculum.

Addressing housing, the President described it as the most significant challenge affecting youth development. He said priority is being given to housing projects in high-population centres, particularly for young people seeking employment in sectors such as tourism, with developments planned close to home islands and major population centres near resort areas.

He added that housing projects are being implemented across multiple regions, rather than being concentrated in the Malé area. As an example, he cited contracts awarded around a month ago to build more than 800 housing units across various islands, with a designated percentage allocated to youth and individuals employed in sectors such as tourism and fisheries. He said housing opportunities will also be made available in the Malé area for young people and those starting new families.