First Lady Urges Greater Women's Participation in Nation-Building and Entrepreneurship

First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has called for the active participation of women across all sectors of nation-building, emphasizing that targeted programs are essential to create broader opportunities for women to contribute to the country's development. Speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the “Viluntheri Kanbalun” program, the First Lady described women as the "heart, dignity, passion, and spirit" of national progress. She noted that women form the critical social fabric and educational foundation of the Maldives, asserting that their involvement is the primary source of happiness and stability within both families and the wider community. Focusing on economic empowerment, First Lady Sajidha highlighted entrepreneurship as a vital skill that yields significant social and economic dividends when accessible to women. She praised the "Viluntheri Kanbalun" initiative for equipping participants with practical knowledge, critical thinking abilities, and the technical skills necessary to launch and sustain business ventures. Reflecting on the global and historical context, the First Lady observed that Maldivian women have been fortunate compared to other societies where religious or cultural restrictions have historically denied women education and the right to voice their opinions. She contrasted these experiences with the principles of Islam, stating that the faith establishes fundamental equality between men and women. According to the First Lady, Islamic history encourages women to be courageous, capable, and morally upright leaders who strengthen the Ummah and contribute to a resilient society. She concluded by reiterating that when women are empowered and integrated into every level of leadership and labor, the entire nation benefits from a more inclusive and sustainable trajectory of growth.