Minister Heena Waleed Highlights Importance of Oratory Skills Among Youth

Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed has emphasised the importance of developing effective communication and public speaking skills among young people, describing oratory as an essential quality that must be nurtured among the emerging generation.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 39th National Oratory Competition, Minister Heena said communication skills are fundamental to achieving success in both personal and professional life. She noted that large-scale competitions such as the National Oratory Competition provide students with valuable opportunities to develop confidence and overcome the fear of speaking before an audience.

The Minister highlighted that effective communication has become increasingly important in today’s professional environment, where communication skills are among the qualities most sought after across different fields.

She also raised concerns about the impact of increased reliance on digital communication, noting that some young people now face difficulties with direct, face-to-face communication. She further expressed concern over hesitation among some young people when speaking Dhivehi, stressing the importance of strengthening the use of the national language.

According to Minister Heena, preparing and delivering speeches requires students to conduct research, organise information and think critically. She said these processes help develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities and broader knowledge while also improving students’ ability to communicate effectively.

She described the competition as an important platform for students to practise fluent communication in Dhivehi and develop qualities that could contribute to their future success.

Addressing the participants, Minister Heena encouraged students to demonstrate their abilities with confidence and determination, describing them as courageous and talented individuals whose voices represent the future of the nation.

She urged participants to ensure that their words are truthful, academically sound and consistent with moral values.

Concluding her remarks, Minister Heena expressed hope that today’s youth would grow into an eloquent, skilled and well-mannered generation committed to serving their religion and the nation.