A new chapter in local skills development began this July as Sun Siyam Resorts, one of the leading locally-owned hospitality brands in the Maldives, launched its first-ever structured apprenticeship program aimed at empowering Maldivian youth for long-term careers in the tourism industry. In collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education under the World Bank-funded SAILS (Sustainable and Integrated Labour Services) Project, the Sun Siyam Apprenticeship Program officially commenced at Siyam World Maldives on July 1, 2025.
The initiative reflects a growing national priority to boost youth employability through hands-on, skills-based training within the Maldives’ largest economic sector—tourism. Designed as a six-month, immersive training experience, the first intake of the program has welcomed 13 apprentices, each of whom will receive on-the-job training across core operational areas such as diving, finance, engineering, culinary arts, information technology, and guest services.
Each apprentice will be mentored by senior professionals at Siyam World Maldives, ensuring a strong foundation of practical knowledge, soft skills, and real-world experience. In addition to department-specific rotations, the program includes skill-building workshops aligned with Maldives National Skills Development Authority (NSDA) certification standards and Sun Siyam’s own standards of excellence in guest service delivery.
Abdulla Thamheed, Vice President of Operations at Sun Siyam Resorts, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the program, noting, “This is more than just training; it is a long-term investment in the future of Maldivian tourism. We are proud to partner with the Ministry of Higher Education to cultivate a generation of confident, capable professionals who are prepared to contribute to our country’s signature industry with pride and dedication.”
Situated on Noonu Atoll, Siyam World Maldives spans a vast 54 hectares and is renowned for its innovative all-inclusive offerings, including one of the largest floating water parks in the Indian Ocean. It provides an ideal training ground for apprentices to gain exposure to a wide array of operational environments and hospitality roles. With 472 accommodations, including pool villas and beachfront suites, multiple dining outlets, and a fully integrated wellness and recreation program, the resort offers apprentices a comprehensive understanding of resort operations at an internationally competitive level.
Although the program begins at Siyam World, Sun Siyam Resorts has announced plans to expand the Apprenticeship Program across its entire portfolio of resorts in the Maldives and Sri Lanka. This future rollout is part of a broader vision to foster sustainable and inclusive workforce development across the region’s tourism industry.
While the Apprenticeship Program operates independently of the group’s Sun Siyam Cares framework which focuses on environmental sustainability, community welfare, and ethical tourism it complements the company’s holistic commitment to developing people and purpose-driven tourism. Both initiatives underscore Sun Siyam Resorts’ long-standing dedication to nurturing local talent and creating meaningful career pathways for Maldivians in the hospitality sector.
Through this initiative, Sun Siyam Resorts not only aims to strengthen its internal workforce but also contribute to the national effort of reducing youth unemployment and enhancing vocational training in alignment with global hospitality standards. The program supports the Maldives government’s vision of preparing its youth for a competitive labor market by equipping them with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience needed to succeed.
For more information on Sun Siyam Resorts and current offers for travelers seeking an unforgettable island escape, visit www.sunsiyam.com/offers.
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