Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment has held the third edition of the Civil Society Organisation (CSO) Forum in Fuvahmulah City. The purpose of the forum is to empower and expand the work of CSOs in the area of community development and to increase public awareness of their work.
The third edition of the forum was held for CSOs active in Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Fuvahmulah City, and Addu City. The closing ceremony of the forum was inaugurated by Managing Director of Fenaka Corporation Limited Ahmed Saeed.
Speaking at the ceremony, Saeed highlighted the importance of expanding the work of CSOs and empowering them through the government. He noted the small number of CSOs conducting important work in the Maldives, due to the many challenges they face in their work. As such, he said CSOs need more resources and financial assistance in order to expand their work.
Also at the ceremony, Registrar of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) Ahmed Irash said the CSO forums will cover all the atolls and conclude in the Greater Male' Region in March. He said he expects the forums to solve the challenges faced by CSOs and have a direct positive impact on citizens.
The participants said they gained valuable information on improving their work at the four-day forum. The youth ministry is planning to hold the fourth edition of the CSO forum in Ukulhas, Alifu Alifu Atoll, in February.