As part of efforts to promote inclusive and modern agricultural development, technical training sessions are currently underway on two islands, with preparations in progress to launch the program in additional locations across the Maldives.

The training, conducted under the Gender Action Learning System (GALS) framework, is a key component of the Maldives Agribusiness Program (MAP). This initiative is jointly implemented by the Maldivian government and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) through the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry.

To date, GALS trainings have been successfully held on Sh. Goidhoo and Sh. Funadhoo. Building on this progress, plans are in place to expand the program to six more islands: Ha. Ihavandhoo, Ha. Dhidhdhoo, HDh. Neykurendhoo, HDh. Nolhivaram, HDh. Hirimaradhoo, and Sh. Foakaidhoo.

The GALS training program is designed to empower individuals—particularly farmers—and strengthen community resilience. Participants are guided through a process that helps them create a personal and professional vision, identify opportunities and challenges, develop action plans to overcome obstacles, understand key business principles, and explore the importance of gender equality in agriculture and entrepreneurship.

This initiative not only aims to build technical capacity but also to ensure that agricultural development in the Maldives is equitable and sustainable.