Maldives launches marine hatchery training
World Bank-backed program aims to build mariculture capacity in island nation vulnerable to climate shocks and economic concentration
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — The Maldives has launched a new batch of its Marine Hatchery Skills Development Program as part of a broader push to diversify its economy, reduce reliance on tourism, and strengthen food security in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable island nations.
The program, inaugurated this month at Maniyafushi in Kaafu Atoll, is led by the Maldives Marine Research Institute with support from the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources and the World Bank–funded TransFORM Project.
Officials say the initiative is designed to build national expertise in mariculture — the farming of marine organisms — at a time when small island developing states are under growing pressure to secure sustainable livelihoods amid climate change, volatile tourism revenues and global supply chain disruptions.
According to the fisheries ministry, four batches of the training program have been conducted over the past two years, training 53 participants drawn largely from outer atolls. The current batch is part of a longer-term strategy to develop domestic aquaculture capacity, generate alternative income sources and expand employment opportunities beyond the tourism sector, which accounts for the bulk of the country’s foreign earnings.
The curriculum covers hatchery operations and aquaculture systems, with practical training in breeding commercially valuable species such as groupers, sea cucumbers, Maldive anemone fish and nacre-producing shellfish. These species are seen as having strong export potential while also supporting reef conservation by reducing pressure on wild stocks.
Development analysts note that mariculture is increasingly viewed as a strategic sector for low-lying island nations like the Maldives, where rising sea levels, warming oceans and coral degradation threaten traditional fisheries and coastal livelihoods.
International financial institutions have encouraged the country to invest in sustainable ocean-based industries as part of climate adaptation and economic resilience planning.
The program also aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable aquaculture as demand for seafood rises worldwide. By focusing on skills development and local innovation, Maldivian authorities say they aim to position the country not only as a tourism destination but also as a responsible participant in the blue economy.
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
