The "Vara" expo, a strategic initiative by the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, concluded on Saturday to an overwhelmingly positive public response, significantly advancing efforts to bolster the Maldivian national workforce.
The expo held from Thursday to Saturday at Central Park in Hulhumale', aimed to increase local participation in the labour market, cultivate essential skills, and empower youth through digital innovations.
The three-day event proved to be a major draw, with the Ministry estimating that over 15,000 job seekers, students, and experts from diverse fields converged at the expo, fostering invaluable connections and opportunities.
A total of 146 exhibitors participated, leading to the creation of a substantial 1,146 job opportunities, over 200 apprenticeship placements, and more than 500 internship prospects, underscoring the expo's tangible impact on employment.
In an exclusive interview with PSM News, Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed, Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, expressed profound satisfaction with the expo's reception, particularly among the youth.
"We are working to empower the youth. Job opportunities, higher education opportunities and employment opportunities for the youth are part of our efforts to make the youth productive and contribute to the country," he affirmed.
He also announced that the "Vara" Expo would become an annual fixture, with plans already in motion for next year's edition, highlighting its crucial role in the Ministry's long-term vision for national development.
The expo was thoughtfully segmented into three distinct zones - the Career Zone, the Education Zone, and the Skills Experience Zone, alongside a Market Zone.
The Career Zone, featuring 50 government and private sector companies, provided direct information on employment, apprenticeship, and internship opportunities. The Education Zone, with 36 exhibitors, served as a hub for information on higher education programs, vocational training, professional certifications, and available scholarship opportunities. Meanwhile, the Skills Experience Zone, hosting 16 exhibitors, offered visitors interactive live demonstrations, allowing them to engage directly with various skills.
The widespread engagement across these zones contributed to the expo's success, making it a valuable platform for people of all ages to explore future pathways.