President unveils plans for youth-focused “Zuvaanunge Third Space”

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to transform the Muliaage vehicle garage on Lily Magu into the “Zuvaanunge Third Space”, a dedicated centre aimed at addressing the shortage of venues for youth activities. The initiative seeks to empower young people, foster skill development, and strengthen community connections. The decision, made during a Cabinet meeting, follows recommendations from ministers and a proposal by the Minister of Construction and Infrastructure, Dr. Abdulla Muththalib. The project prioritises safety, given the area’s proximity to schools and heavy traffic, with a comprehensive traffic management strategy to be implemented alongside the transformation. The Zuvaanunge Third Space is envisioned as a hub for diverse activities that promote skill-building, creative expression, and social interaction. Planned activities include boot camps, skill exchange programmes, virtual reality training, community art walls, culinary events, and mental health initiatives. It will also host interactive workshops and provide dedicated spaces for promoting well-being. Designed as an eco-friendly space, the centre will host a cafeteria serving healthy, locally inspired cuisine while providing a platform for small and medium food vendors to showcase their products. President Dr. Muizzu underscored the importance of such spaces in unlocking the potential of Maldivian youth, fostering personal growth, and strengthening community ties. The name “third space” draws from sociological terminology, referring to social settings distinct from the home (“first place”) and the workplace (“second place”). This new hub aims to provide a welcoming environment for the youth to thrive outside these traditional spaces.