The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has announced plans to introduce training programmes across Maldives aimed at encouraging more young people to enter the fisheries sector.

In a statement, the ministry said the programmes will target both people already working in the industry and those interested in pursuing careers in fisheries.

The initiative is intended to promote greater youth participation in the sector, increase fish production and value-added fisheries products, expand market opportunities and introduce new fisheries.

The ministry said the training will also focus on increasing women's participation in the fisheries industry and improving the quality of fishery products produced at island level.

During the programme, participants will receive training in diamondback squid fishing, the production of value-added fish products and small business management.

Island councils interested in hosting the training programmes have been asked to notify the ministry in writing before 15 July.

The initiative comes as the government seeks to address labour shortages in the fisheries sector.

Chief Government Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundhu) recently said large-scale recruitment by state-owned enterprises, including Fenaka Corporation, had drawn young people away from traditional industries such as fishing. Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has also said the industry is facing difficulties in recruiting Maldivians to work on fishing vessels.