The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources is ramping up its mariculture training programs at Maniyafushi to build human capacity across the nation and accelerate commercial marine farming in the Maldives.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony for the second batch of the year, the Minister highlighted that under special presidential directives, the program’s annual frequency has doubled from two batches to four per year. In collaboration with the Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI), the third batch is scheduled for October, followed by the fourth batch in November.
"Across the six programs conducted so far, we have successfully trained 88 individuals. They now possess core mariculture skills. God willing, they have the knowledge and practical ability to set up hatcheries and develop farm systems."
— The Minister stated.
While participants from nearly every region of the country have joined past cohorts, the Minister noted that candidates from Vaavu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, and Addu City have yet to be represented. Future batches will specifically prioritize these areas to ensure nationwide coverage with no atoll left behind.
Emphasizing that Maniyafushi is a fully equipped demonstration facility featuring on-site laboratories and accommodation, the Minister stressed that the hands-on nature of mariculture demands an immersive, 14-day on-site experience to achieve the best learning outcomes.
"This is truly an exceptional opportunity. Accommodation is free, and meals are provided free of charge. Even if you have to take a two-week leave, this is one of the best programs you can attend."
— The Minister emphasized.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister assured graduates that both the Ministry and MMRI will provide continuous technical support, guidance, and collaboration as they transition into practical field operations and commercial ventures.
The mariculture training program is an initiative launched under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s government's "Hafthaa 14" (Week 14) roadmap, aimed at training youth in aquaculture skills and the establishment of hatcheries for breeding reef fish. Conducted with assistance from the World Bank’s TRANSFORM project, this government initiative is designed to build human capacity in mariculture, paving the way for the establishment of a sustainable marine aquaculture (mariculture) industry in the Maldives.
