Ministry Launches Peer Educators Programme

The Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts has officially launched its Peer Educators Programme, a dynamic initiative aimed at equipping young people with essential knowledge and skills to address critical social challenges in their communities. The program, which runs from February 16 to February 20, 2025, has welcomed 32 participants aged 18 to 35, fostering a new generation of community leaders.

Young people play a crucial role in social transformation and community resilience. However, many face psycho-social challenges such as substance use, gang violence, and poor sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes. The Peer Educators Programme is designed to empower youth (aged 18 to 24) with the necessary tools to lead meaningful change within their communities through education, engagement, and mentorship.

AComprehensiveApproachtoYouthEmpowerment

The training program offers a hands-on learning experience that enhances participants' ability to educate and support their peers in making informed life choices. Through interactive workshops, practical activities, and expert mentorship, the program focuses on developing leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Beyond skill-building, the initiative fosters a sense of responsibility and social connectedness, encouraging young leaders to create safe spaces for dialogue, strengthen support networks, and advocate for healthier lifestyles. Participants will also gain experience in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) techniques, ensuring the sustainability of their peer-led initiatives.

KeyLearningAreas

By the end of the training, participants are expected to achieve the following outcomes:

  • KnowledgeAcquisition: Understanding major psycho-social challenges affecting youth, risk and protective factors, and the effectiveness of peer education in community transformation.

  • SkillDevelopment: Enhancing communication, leadership, facilitation, conflict resolution, and critical thinking skills to effectively engage with peers.

  • ProgramDesign&Implementation: Learning how to plan and execute youth-led initiatives that promote positive behavior and reduce risk factors.

  • CommunityEngagement&Support: Building partnerships with organizations, mentoring peers, and increasing awareness of available health and social services.

  • Monitoring&Sustainability: Developing M&E skills to assess program impact, ensuring long-term effectiveness of peer education efforts.

The Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts remains committed to fostering a generation of proactive, socially responsible young leaders. This Peer Educators Programme marks a significant step toward creating a healthier, safer, and more resilient society for the youth of the Maldives.