The Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare has extended the application deadline for the "Riveli Award 2026", conferred to encourage persons with disabilities and those dedicated to their welfare.

The Riveli Award is an important national initiative conducted to implement the Act on the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Provision of Financial Assistance, as well as the government’s "Oagaatheri Mujuthamau" policies aimed at opening economic and social opportunities for them.

The objective of the award is to recognize individuals with disabilities and celebrate the contributions of those working to empower them.

According to the ministry's announcement on the 2nd of this month, the initial deadline for submission was 1:00 PM yesterday. However, the deadline has now been extended to 1:00 PM on Thursday, September 17.

Targeted outcomes of the Riveli Award:

Empowering persons with disabilities

  • Recognizing and encouraging the efforts of persons with disabilities and those working for their benefit
  • Raising public awareness regarding the rights of persons with disabilities
  • Enhancing the participation of persons with disabilities and facilitating opportunities across community sectors
  • Advocating for the personal independence of persons with disabilities and paving the way for their advancement

The awards will be conferred across six categories:

  1. Persons with disabilities category
  2. Persons with disabilities who bring honor and notable achievements to the Maldives
  3. Provision of education to persons and children with disabilities (Government and private entities)
  4. Non-governmental organizations dedicated to serving persons with disabilities
  5. Professional and individual support services
  6. Entities supporting the economic empowerment of persons with disabilities (Private companies / State-Owned Enterprises)

Eligibility criteria documentation, application forms, and award guidelines are available at the Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare counter at the Umar Zahir Office Building, on the ministry’s website (health.gov.mv), and from Family and Children Service Centres (FCSCs) established across the atolls.

Completed application forms and supporting documents can be submitted directly to the ministry’s counter or emailed to [email protected].

The Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare noted that the Riveli Award will foster confidence in persons with disabilities and reduce social discrimination. The ministry added that encouraging practitioners and advocates in the sector will elevate the standard of services provided to persons with disabilities and strengthen community engagement.