The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has trained 700 imams under its imam training programme, Islamic Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said.

The ministry is conducting training programmes by sending imams to Egypt, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia.

Speaking at a ceremony held at the Islamic Centre today, Minister Shaheem said 91 young men had been awarded certificates to lead prayers and deliver Friday sermons.

He said the Maldives is facing a shortage of imams and khateebs as the older generation retires or passes away, with some islands having to bring in khateebs from neighbouring islands.

The minister said the training programme is aimed at developing a new generation of imams and khateebs. He added that young khateebs who have received certification are being warmly welcomed by communities across the Maldives.

The programme, launched in early 2024, aims to train 1,000 young khateebs over five years.