The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has launched the "Vilunveshi School Garden Program" in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare and the Ministry of Education.
The initiative was introduced during an orientation workshop held on 14 February 2026 at Meeruma in Malé. The program is being implemented by the Climate Change Department of the Ministry under the Enhancing Climate Resilience and Food Security Project.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of State for Tourism and Environment Ibrahim Mimrah highlighted the government’s continued efforts to strengthen national food security in response to climate change challenges. He stressed the importance of integrating urban agriculture into school systems and promoting healthier food choices, including fruits and vegetables, within school environments.
Delivering the keynote address, Education Superintendent Ismail Saudulla said school gardening initiatives would help students connect classroom learning with real world environmental challenges. He noted that such programs can nurture environmental responsibility, practical skills and healthy lifestyle habits among young people.
A total of 50 participants representing selected schools and relevant ministries attended the workshop. The program will initially be introduced in three schools in the Greater Malé Area: Ghaazee School, Hiriya School and Muhyidheen School. Preparatory work is currently underway to design and establish gardens based on the interests and needs of each school. The initiative is expected to expand to additional schools in later phases.
The School Garden Program aims to promote hands on learning related to the environment, climate change and urban agriculture, while increasing awareness of nutrition and sustainable practices. It forms part of the Enhancing Climate Resilience and Food Security Project, which seeks to reduce the vulnerability of Maldivian island communities to climate related risks by strengthening institutional and community capacity. As part of efforts to promote climate smart technologies and sustainable practices within the agri food sector, the School Garden Program is being implemented as a key activity. The broader project is funded through grants, loans and technical assistance from the Asian Development Fund, the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific, the Ocean Resilience Coastal Adaptation Trust Fund and the Government of Maldives.
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