President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu Inaugurates STELCO’s State Utility Skills Academy in K. Thulusdhoo

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated the State Utility Skills Academy in K. Thulusdhoo, a new training and development center established by State Electric Company Limited (STELCO) to strengthen national technical capacity within the utility sector. The ceremony was attended by STELCO Managing Director Mr. Ahmed Shamah Rasheed and senior officials of the company.

Developed to enhance engineering proficiency and improve service quality across the Maldives, the Academy represents a strategic investment in modern training facilities, renewable energy education, and the long-term development of skilled utility professionals.

The facility includes fully equipped classrooms, a workshop, a laboratory, and accommodation units. Constructed by STELCO’s own employees at a cost of MVR 5 million, the center can accommodate training for up to 50 students at a time, supporting continuous learning for technicians and engineers working in power, water, and sewerage operations.

A key component of the Academy is its renewable energy laboratory, established with resources valued at USD 200,000, donated by Yantai Dongfang Wisdom Electric Co. Ltd. The lab supports hands-on training in solar and wind technologies, aligning with the Maldives’ transition toward sustainable energy solutions.

To strengthen academic collaboration, STELCO signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Maldives National University (MNU) on 26 October 2025 to jointly deliver professional courses and training programs at the Academy. Additional institutions are expected to partner in future phases.

Training programs will initially be offered across six core areas, including mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, water and sewerage operations, automation engineering, and administrative support services. The curriculum will continue to evolve to meet emerging industry needs and international utility standards.

The Academy aims to enhance in-house technical capacity, reduce operational costs, improve safety practices, expand renewable energy expertise, and preserve industry knowledge for future generations. It also seeks to encourage youth engagement through partnerships with schools and universities, supporting the development of future Maldivian engineers.

Positioned as a regional center for utility sector learning, the State Utility Skills Academy will cater not only to STELCO personnel but also to professionals from other institutions. The initiative underscores STELCO’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce capable of supporting reliable, efficient, and sustainable utility services nationwide.