The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture, and Ocean Resources, in collaboration with the Ga. Villingili Council, has announced a specialized training program on diamondback squid fishing set to take place in Ga. Villingili later this month.
The four-day workshop, scheduled for late August, is designed to introduce local participants to deep-sea squid fishing techniques and the business management skills required to establish sustainable fisheries ventures. Interested individuals are requested to register by August 16 by sending a text message to the Villingili Council's Viber contact number at 7260027.
Conducted by technical experts from the Fisheries Ministry, the training curriculum covers practical catching techniques, business setup, record-keeping, business models, market surveying, and product marketing. Participants will also receive instruction on financial feasibility analysis, product pricing, value-added fish processing, hygienic food packaging, and labeling standards.
The initiative is part of a broader nation-building effort by the Fisheries Ministry to explore and utilize the country’s deep-sea marine resources. The ministry originally opened applications for island councils interested in hosting the training between June 25 and July 15.
By developing capacity for diamondback squid fishing in the deep offshore waters of the Maldives, the program aims to diversify the national fisheries industry, provide new revenue streams for local communities, and promote alternative livelihoods for existing and aspiring fishermen.
