The Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts has announced that Youth Hack 2025 will be held from 11 to 13 December, offering the largest reward in the programme’s history — a first-place cash prize of MVR 100,000. The hackathon will take place at the newly opened Youth Hub, which has quickly become a central venue for youth-focused activities and innovation in the country.
Registration for the competition is now open to young people between the ages of 18 and 35, with sign-ups available through an online form or QR code shared by the Ministry. Officials say the event will centre on four thematic pillars reflecting key areas of interest and opportunity for the Maldivian youth population.
This year’s themes are:
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Play, Move, Live: promoting fitness, sports and healthy lifestyle choices
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Balance, Connect, Thrive: supporting mental wellbeing and social resilience
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Launch, Earn, Thrive: encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship and gig-economy participation
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Imagine, Express, Inspire: celebrating arts, digital creativity and cultural expression
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three teams, with MVR 75,000 for second place and MVR 50,000 for the third-place winners.
The Ministry stated that the Youth Hackathon was first introduced under the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, as part of a series of fast-tracked initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities and skill development for young people. The programme’s objective is to help participants build digital competencies, explore emerging career paths, and engage with real-world problem-solving challenges.
Last year’s event drew strong participation from across the country, and officials expect even higher turnout this year, supported by the Youth Hub’s growing lineup of activities. Since opening, the venue has hosted several youth engagement events, including the first Salhi Fest 2025 and multiple community gatherings such as youth film screenings.
Organisers say Youth Hack 2025 will serve as a platform for creativity, teamwork and innovation — and as a stepping stone for young Maldivians preparing to enter a rapidly evolving digital economy.
