Adolescents contstitute 40% of the population

The number of adolescents and youth in the Maldives has increased substantially in recent years, and is rapidly approaching 40% of the country's total population. The percentage of adolescents and young people between the ages of 18 and 35 recently peaked in 2004, and now constitute approximately 25% of the country’s total population, while the 10-14year old age group was  expected to peak in 2011. These statistics clearly show that the current period is crucial for policy interventions and strengthened programmes that meet the needs of Maldivian youth, who represent the future and are an inexhaustible resource for the nation. Tapping into and nurturing young people's talent and energy in a positive way will enable the Maldives to achieve her national potential and boost her competitiveness in the global economy in years to come.

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