President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated the State Utility Skills Academy in K. Thulusdhoo, a landmark initiative by the State Electric Company Limited (STELCO) to strengthen technical expertise and advance engineering capabilities across the Maldives.
The President was accompanied at the ceremony by STELCO Managing Director Ahmed Shamah Rasheed and senior company officials.
Developed as part of STELCO’s long-term vision to build a skilled and self-reliant utility workforce, the Academy represents a strategic investment in modern infrastructure, renewable technologies, and human capital development.
Built entirely by STELCO’s own staff at a cost of MVR 5 million, the facility includes classrooms, workshops, laboratories, and accommodation blocks, with the capacity to train up to 50 students at a time. Training will focus on enhancing technical and operational skills for those working in power, water, and sewerage services.
A key feature of the Academy is a renewable energy laboratory, equipped with state-of-the-art resources worth USD 200,000, donated by China’s Yantai Dongfang Wisdom Electric Co. Ltd. The lab will support hands-on training in solar and wind energy technologies, complementing the nation’s transition to sustainable energy solutions.
To strengthen academic collaboration, STELCO and the Maldives National University (MNU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 26 October 2025, enabling the joint delivery of technical courses and specialized training programs. Additional institutions are expected to join in future to expand expert-led learning opportunities.
The Academy will initially offer training across six key disciplines, including mechanical and automotive engineering, water and sewerage system operations, automation engineering, and administrative and digital systems management. Future programs will evolve to align with emerging industry standards and technologies.
According to STELCO, the Academy’s goals include enhancing in-house maintenance capacity, improving operational safety, advancing renewable energy knowledge, preserving technical expertise, and fostering innovation. The center also aims to engage youth through schools and universities, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in engineering and utilities.
Positioned as a national training hub, the State Utility Skills Academy will serve not only STELCO personnel but also professionals from other public and private utilities. The initiative reflects the Administration’s broader commitment to delivering reliable public services and empowering Maldivians through education, innovation, and sustainable development.
