Public Service Media (PSM) has officially launched the Build, Educate, Advance, Motivate (BEAM) Training Initiative, a nationwide programme aimed at boosting professional capacity within the Maldives’ media industry.
The initiative, run under the Maldives Media Institute (MMI), was inaugurated on August 17 by Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, Ibrahim Waheed, who emphasised the urgent need for accessible training opportunities for both PSM staff and the wider media community.
“Extensive consultations have shown strong demand among young people and professionals for structured training programmes. These agreements mark a vital step in expanding access across the country,” Minister Waheed said at the ceremony.
As part of the programme, PSM signed memorandums of understanding with several partner institutions, including the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM), Avid College, and Mianz International College (MI).
IUM Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ali Zahir said the university would deliver training in management, leadership, and communication, supported by technical assistance from PSM. Avid College Chairman Abdullah Mushtaq Rashad pledged to conduct motivational sessions to instill leadership qualities, while MI College Founder Ahmed Mottaki highlighted new opportunities, noting the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning alongside existing programmes.
In addition to local partners, PSM confirmed plans to collaborate with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Australian High Commissioner David Jessup announced that Canberra would cover training costs and provide media content, creating opportunities to empower and modernise the Maldivian media landscape.
“Through ABC, we will strengthen skills, deliver content, and open pathways for Maldivians to benefit from international expertise,” Jessup said.
PSM Managing Director Ibrahim Nasreen explained that the BEAM initiative is designed not only to build capacity within PSM but also to meet broader industry needs identified by the Youth Ministry. He added that the effort reflects global standards, with public service broadcasters worldwide running similar training institutes.
Although formally launched this week, training under BEAM has been underway since April 2025, offering opportunities both domestically and abroad. With structured programmes, international partnerships, and strong government backing, BEAM is set to play a crucial role in shaping a more skilled and resilient media workforce in the Maldives.
