350 Disabled Citizens Secure Employment Through Government Initiative

The Maldivian government has successfully facilitated employment for 350 persons with disabilities during its current term, Minister of Social and Family Development Dr. Aishath Shiham announced. Speaking during International Day of Persons with Disabilities observances, Minister Shiham emphasized that protecting disability rights remains fundamental to building a compassionate society and resilient family structures. She described persons with disabilities as a demographic requiring enhanced social protection measures. Minister Shiham attributed the employment initiative's success to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's leadership, characterizing the policy as a deliberate effort to advance inclusivity and reinforce social progress. She highlighted collaboration across government agencies as the primary driver behind the program's achievements. Looking ahead, the minister outlined key priorities for service improvement, including robust systems for early detection and treatment in childhood, income-generating pathways for capable school-leavers, and essential life skills training programs. She stressed that continued inter-agency cooperation will be indispensable for effective implementation of these initiatives. This year's International Day of Persons with Disabilities carried the theme "Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress," calling for greater participation of persons with disabilities within the broader community. The annual observance occurs every December 3rd.