Dhiraagu-Special Olympics Maldives partner for inclusive sports program in Thinadhoo

Dhiraagu has announced a strategic partnership with Special Olympics Maldives to launch a regional sports development program designed to empower children and young people with intellectual disabilities through inclusive sports, structured training, and active community engagement.

Special Olympics International, a global movement committed to transforming lives through sport, operates in the Maldives through its national affiliate, Special Olympics Maldives.

Dhiraagu has promoted inclusion in sports for over eight years through the Dhiraagu Special Sports Festival held in Malé and continues to support initiatives that foster meaningful social impact, promote inclusion, and empower individuals across the Maldives. This commitment is part of the company’s broader mission to connect and uplift communities nationwide.

The telecom company states the first regional program under the partnership will be implemented in GDh. Thinadhoo, which will running for a period of six month.

The initiative aims to reach up to 60 athletes and their families through weekly training sessions following the Special Olympics Fit5 curriculum. This comprehensive, community-based program emphasizes physical fitness, nutrition, hydration, adaptive sports training, and active family wellness. It also focuses on developing local coaches and volunteers to ensure the program’s long-term impact and sustainability.

Saidh Ibrahim Rameez, Chairperson of Special Olympics Maldives, said Dhiraagu Special Sports Festival has played a vital role in promoting inclusion and equality in sports, with many Maldivian athletes with disabilities are proudly representing the nation and achieving success on prestigious international platforms at present.

“Initiatives such as the Dhiraagu Special Sports Festival have meaningfully contributed to expanding inclusive sporting opportunities, and we believe that our partnership with Dhiraagu through this initiative in GDh. Thinadhoo will further strengthen and extend these efforts nationwide,” he added.

Mirshan Hassan, Dhiraagu’s Director of Brand & Marketing Communications, said the program, which builds on the company’s long-standing commitment to inclusive sport, reflect the company’s that every child deserves access to opportunities that support their growth and wellbeing.

“By working closely with Special Olympics Maldives, we aim to support sustainable programs that empower local communities and strengthen advocacy for inclusion,” he stressed.