Are You Considered a Youth? If So, Today is Your Special Day!

National Youth Day has been a celebrated on differing dates over the past years, so I am not amused if everyone is not geared up to celebrate it today. The decision to move the date was initiated by the Cabinet Members of current President, His Excellency Ibrahim Mohamed Solih during a cabinet meeting held in December last year which was later adopted by him. Today’s date, 22^nd October, was chosen as the National Youth Day as it marks the anniversary of the historic bill passed enabling voting rights for Maldivians over the age of 18 years, for the first time, over 12 years ago.

The National Youth Day is celebrated for the purpose of promoting the positive contributions to the community by the youth and to also empower them to reach even higher goals.

At that time, the day was set to be celebrated with vibrant festivities, however; the coronavirus pandemic had other plans. Nevertheless, Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment has facilitated the opportunity for youths to take part in a virtual camp titled ‘Maldives Youth Camp 2020’ which takes place today and tomorrow. Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Mr. Ahmed Mahloof addressed the nation on the occasion of National Youth Day during the virtual opening ceremony held to inaugurate the Camp.

The Camp is targeted towards all local youths, abroad or in the country, aiming to address the barriers in creating a strategic action plan for youth empowerment as well as increasing youth leadership in the drafting process of the plan. 

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih also took some time to wish the youths on the occasion via twitter.