Last November, Vara Expo 2025 brought job seekers, students and professionals together with employers and educators at Central Park, Hulhumalé. Over three days, an estimated 30,000 people came through, about twice the number expected. Many of them left with an application submitted, a course place or a job offer.
Visitors submitted 450 job applications during the expo, and 41 candidates were hired on the spot. Exhibitors also offered apprenticeships and internships. Educational institutions showcased more than a thousand courses, from coding for children to university degrees at home and abroad, received hundreds of applications and awarded 39 scholarships.
Nearly 150 organisations from the public and private sectors took part across the Career, Education, Skill and Market zones. Panel discussions with industry experts and policymakers were livestreamed on Facebook, and workshops covered interview skills, labour rights, wellbeing and AI. Each evening, the stage hosted cultural performances, music and fitness sessions, and the expo closed with a lucky draw.
Visitors ranged from students exploring their options to job seekers and working professionals looking to advance, with young people making up a large share of the crowd. Nearly all exhibitors who gave feedback said they were satisfied, and almost all plan to return.
Vara Expo 2026 returns to Central Park, Hulhumalé, from November 26 to 28, 2026, building on last year's results with more opportunities for young Maldivians. Whether you are looking for a job, a course or your next career move, come and join us. Registration will open soon for employers, educational institutions and training providers looking to exhibit.