Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has affirmed that active efforts are in progress to establish the Fisheries and Ocean Resources College and initiate its courses. The initiative aims to fulfil the unwavering commitments made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, outlined in the government's manifesto.
The establishment of a college or a learning centre on fisheries by the ministry have been mandated by law, despite not being implemented previously. However, within the first 100 days of since the current administration, efforts to develop the Fisheries College started. Decisions have been made such that the college will inaugurate on August, with the assistant of Maldives National University (MNU).
Speaking at a programme aired on PSM News, Minister of State for Fisheries and Ocean Resources Dr. Amzath Ahmed assured that the preparations to commence the courses of the college are ongoing expeditiously. Noting that the official works of the college will start at MNU during July, the minister revealed that the primary objective of this initiative aims to ensure the employment of educated and skilled individuals within the fishing industry.
Providing information on the college, MNU highlighted the ongoing endeavours and preparations of the university to start the work of the college. It revealed that while all the courses have been formulated, they are currently pending the approval of the Maldives Qualifications Authority (MQA).
The government observed that although Maldives is a low-lying nation surrounded by ocean, the amount of work to explore the fisheries industries previously were insignificant. Underscoring the crucial importance of exploring the field to optimise the resources effectively, the government believes that the Fisheries College will play a pivotal role in strengthening the fishing industry. Furthermore, the college will facilitate the supply of a skilled workforce to the industry and serve as a foundation for scientific exploration of oceanic phenomena.