United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Dhiraagu have launched the Film for Change 2018. Film for Change is a joint project by UNDP Maldives and Dhiraagu aimed at empowering young people to explore social issues through this medium of film.
The programme consists of a training component and a post-production component with industry experts where trainees will produce short films on a social issue in groups. The films will then be screened via social media and other public platforms. The film for change programme is held by UNDP, with assistance of Dhiraagu and Australian Embassy.
Addressing the ceremony held to launch the Film for Change, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative to Maldives Shoko Noda stated the programme was launched to give a chance to youth to address the issues in the society from their perspective. Moreover, Australian Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives, Bryce Hutchesson highlighted the role of youth in the development of the country.
Meanwhile, Manager Marketing, Communications and Public Relations Mohamed Mirshan Hassan revealed Dhiraagu takes part in the programme to empower youth to address social issues and to use technology and digital platforms in addressing such issues. The themes of this year's Film for Change include topics such as Quality Education, Gender Equality, Climate Action, Life below Water and Climate Change.
UNDP revealed the films produced by youth for this year's festival will be publicized on October.