First Lady Sajidha Mohamed met with volunteers from the Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) programme this morning at the Official Residence of the President, Mulee’aage.
Her Excellency Ishigami Rumiko, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Maldives, and the Director of JICA accompanied the JOCV delegation during the visit.
At the meeting, JOCV volunteers shared their experiences working across various islands, where they teach in local schools and collaborate with communities. They highlighted their involvement in health and physical education, including handball, baseball, and athletics. The volunteers also contribute by teaching music and vocational skills such as handicrafts and culinary arts, supporting cultural exchange and capacity-building in island communities.
The First Lady expressed sincere gratitude for the continued support extended by the Government of Japan. She conveyed appreciation for the dedication of JOCV volunteers, noting that their service brings meaningful benefits to local communities and strengthens the longstanding partnership between the Maldives and Japan.
JOCV has been active in the Maldives since 1982 and has deployed more than 350 volunteers across the country.