On 25th December, the Government made an announcement, marking the bold move to reserve specific job titles exclusively for Maldivians to create more job opportunities for locals in the highlighted fields in the Maldives.
In the Maldives, a prevalent topic of discussion pertains to the limited opportunities available to residents within specific professional domains. Despite the presence of well-qualified Maldivians, who in some instances possess superior qualifications compared to their foreign counterparts, it remains a noticeable trend for non-locals to secure these positions.
In some fields, the favouritism towards foreigners is blatantly obvious, regardless of the number of locals who are equally, if not more qualified for the same position. Although this problem has been consistently ongoing for years, with each Government trying to bring a proper solution to it, the recent announcement has sparked some debate regarding whether the steps currently being considered are taking it too far.
On 25th December, the Government made an announcement, marking the bold move to reserve specific job titles exclusively for Maldivians, to create more job opportunities for locals in the highlighted fields in the Maldives.
With this, the Government published a list of fields where they aim to only employ locals, to increase the employment of locals in the Maldives. The sectors include:
● Guest Relations Officers, Housekeeping Managers, Human Resource Managers, Front Office Managers, Tour Guides, Divers,
● Inspectors, Surveyors, Site Supervisors
● Photographers
● Accountants
● Pilots
● Hairdressers, beauticians
● Electricians, Electrical Engineers
● Baby sitter
● Personal Trainer
● Imams
While this initiative signals a clear commitment to empowering local talent, it is not without its fair share of discussions and debates. The government acknowledges the need for a meticulous implementation process to ensure a seamless transition. Although the exact dates for these changes remain undisclosed, the anticipation and discourse surrounding the potential impact of these measures are palpable.
Undoubtedly, placing a priority on local employment is vital, especially considering the high educational standards among Maldivians. However, it prompts reflection on the feasibility of exclusive employment in certain fields. Some professions necessitate skill sets and training not readily available within the Maldives.
This raises a fundamental question: How can the nation strike a harmonious balance between offering abundant opportunities for local talent and acknowledging the unique demands of specialized roles? It's essential to recognize that professions like pilots or electrical engineers often require a level of expertise that may demand international training or experience.
Consequently, the government faces the challenge of addressing skill development and training initiatives to bridge this gap and ensure that Maldivians have equal access to the qualifications available abroad. Whether through collaborations or alternative strategies, the evident struggle in the Maldives to access such training stands out as a significant hurdle that must be overcome to implement substantial changes, equipping locals with the skills required by specialized industries.
Adopting a nuanced approach that acknowledges the global nature of certain industries is crucial. This way, the Maldives can strive to cultivate a workforce that is not only locally empowered but also globally competitive. In navigating these complexities, the nation can chart a course toward a balanced and inclusive employment strategy that meets both domestic needs and international standards.
