The Maldives National University (MNU), through its College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, has announced the opening of enrolment for two specialised six-month programmes set to commence in August. The initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to strengthen the fisheries sector, long recognised as a cornerstone of the Maldivian economy. Applications will be accepted until 5 August.
Among the programmes offered are the National Certificate Level 3 in Sports Fishing Guiding and the National Certificate Level 1 in Fish Processing and Quality Control. The Sports Fishing Guiding course will be held at MNU campuses in Thinadhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, and Kulhudhuffushi City, Haa Dhaalu Atoll. The Fish Processing and Quality Control course will take place at the university’s main campus in Malé.
The launch of these educational tracks signals a renewed governmental commitment to modernising the nation’s fisheries industry. The College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences was inaugurated during the first 100 days of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, realising a statutory requirement that had long gone unfulfilled. For years, the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources had been tasked with establishing a centre for fisheries education, a mandate now brought to life.
Since its establishment, the college has operated under the auspices of MNU, initiating its inaugural teaching programmes in August of last year. It was conceived to address a critical need: preparing a generation of Maldivian youth to take up professional roles in fisheries with the skills and knowledge required for sustainable development.
Instruction offered through the curriculum is grounded in contemporary research, with a focus on fisheries science, marine biodiversity and environmental studies. The programmes also incorporate rigorous training in the socio-economic dynamics of the industry, equipping graduates with a comprehensive understanding of both technical operations and their broader impact on society.