Students from 164 Islands Visit Engineering Sites to Inspire Future Innovators

Students from 164 islands across the Maldives participated in a nationwide series of site visits and information sessions to mark Engineering Day, aiming to spark interest in technical careers among the youth. Led by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development in collaboration with state-owned companies, the initiative provided students with firsthand exposure to the country's most critical development projects. In the capital, 45 students from CHSE and Male' Vocational High School visited the ThilaMale' Bridge construction site, where they received technical briefings on the engineering complexities of the major project. Beyond bridge construction, the program extended to essential utility services. Students visited facilities operated by STELCO, Fenaka, MWSC, and MTCC to learn how electricity, water, and transport services are planned and delivered. These sessions provided a comprehensive look at operational management and the diverse career paths available within the engineering sector. According to the Infrastructure Ministry, the primary goal of the outreach is to encourage young Maldivians to pursue fields that directly contribute to the nation's physical and economic development. By connecting classroom learning with real-world application, the government hopes to build a sustainable pipeline of local expertise. This year's celebrations also introduced a first-of-its-kind award to honor outstanding engineers, alongside media campaigns highlighting the stories of professionals shaping the Maldives' landscape. A highlight of the festivities included a walk across the ThilaMale' Bridge with the President, who engaged in discussions with engineers regarding the future of the sector. To ensure long-term growth, the government announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art Engineering Lab. This facility will serve as a hub for research and development, fostering sustainable engineering practices and providing the necessary tools to support the country's evolving infrastructure needs.