Dhiraagu and Maldives Fishermen’s Association Empower Youth with Successful Young Fisher’s Club Programme

Dhiraagu and the Maldives Fishermen’s Association have marked the successful conclusion of the Young Fisher’s Club programme, a joint initiative aimed at educating and empowering youth in marine conservation and fishing practices. Thirty-five students, comprising 25 girls and 10 boys from Ihavandhoo School, proudly graduated from the programme, receiving their badges at a special ceremony held at the school.
The Young Fisher’s Club initiative served as a platform to introduce students to the fundamentals of fishing, marine ecology, and sustainable practices, while also imparting essential life skills such as swimming, snorkeling, leadership, and teamwork. Under the guidance of expert mentors, students engaged in hands-on practical sessions, fostering a deeper understanding of marine environments and conservation efforts.
Abdulla Shakir Mohamed, Secretary General of the Maldives Fishermen’s Association, commended the graduates, emphasizing the programme’s role in fostering interest and leadership in fisheries and marine conservation among youth. He expressed hope for the expansion of such initiatives across schools in the Maldives.
Ahmed Rasheed, Principal of HA. Ihavandhoo School, lauded the programme for integrating environmental education seamlessly into the curriculum, sparking students' interest in conservation and sustainable resource management.
Highlighting the programme's inclusivity, Abdullah Sadiq, Manager at Dhiraagu, noted that the majority of graduates were girls, underscoring the commitment to gender diversity and equal participation in crucial industries.
Participants expressed gratitude for the invaluable knowledge gained, ranging from biodiversity and fisheries management to soft skills like teamwork and leadership.
The programme’s curriculum covered various aspects of the fishing industry, including marine ecology, weather patterns, disaster management, and navigation, enriching students’ understanding of the sector.
As part of Dhiraagu’s Corporate Social Responsibility, empowering youth and environmental stewardship remain focal points. The successful Young Fisher’s Club programme reflects Dhiraagu’s dedication to nurturing future leaders and safeguarding marine ecosystems for generations to come.