The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, Abdulla Rafiu has announced that a comprehensive network of youth hubs currently under development across the country will prioritise psychological support and mental well-being alongside traditional recreational activities.
Speaking at the "Ahaa" public forum, Minister Rafiu detailed the government’s progress in establishing these hubs, which are designed to serve as a vital "third space" for young people—a dedicated environment outside of the home and school or workplace.
These centres are intended to be multi-functional, offering study spaces, technology-driven programmes, and recreational facilities, while also serving as a venue for private companies and institutions to conduct youth-oriented initiatives.
A key highlight of the initiative is the decentralisation of mental health services. Minister Rafiu emphasised that the psychological support currently available in Male’ will be extended to the atolls through these regional hubs. To facilitate this, the Ministry has integrated the "1456" helpline into the hub framework to ensure youth have easy access to professional guidance.
"The primary purpose of these hubs is to provide a 'third space' for youth," the Minister explained, noting that the facilities would also bridge the gap between atolls by providing a platform for consultation and collaborative discussions.
The "1456" toll-free hotline is a cornerstone of the Ministry’s strategy to promote healthy living. The service offers a wide range of assistance, including professional counseling, psychological first aid, mental health screening, and life skills awareness sessions. Designed to offer personalised guidance under one roof, the service is available to both individuals and families.
The psychological support services are currently accessible free of charge by calling 1456 on all government working days, Sunday through Thursday, between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm.