On Saturday, the official inauguration of dredging, land reclamation, coastal protection, and harbor upgrade works for the military training island K. Girifushi took place. Defense Minister Hassan Rasheed launched the project during a ceremony held at the Girifushi Training Centre in the evening.

This initiative is part of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's strategic plan to enhance the capabilities of the Maldivian military. It is among the largest projects aimed at expanding MNDF training facilities and improving the skills and preparedness of the armed forces.

The first phase involves reclaiming 13.3 hectares of land, adding to the existing 5.7 hectares on the island. The MNDF stated that this expansion will greatly increase the available space for training activities on Girifushi.

Practical aspects of the project include constructing rock revetments to safeguard the shoreline, developing outer canals and groynes to prevent erosion, and building an L‑block quay wall to accommodate vessels. Additionally, two jetties measuring 40 meters and 12 meters will be constructed to enhance access and navigation. A 300-meter small-arms firing range will also replace the current 100-meter range.

MNDF announced that once dredging, land protection, and harbor upgrades are completed, a modern, fully equipped training center will be established on Girifushi in subsequent phases.

The island is set to become the headquarters of the Maldivian National Service Training Centre, a flagship program led by the President aimed at developing young people into responsible and strong citizens. The facility will include training spaces managed by the Officer Training Wing and the NCO Academy, along with accommodation blocks and a super-harbor system for students and instructors.

Attending the ceremony were Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Deputy Chief of Defence Force Brigadier General Ahmed Ghiyas, and Brigadier General Dr. Hussain Ibrahim, Commander of the MNDF College of Defence and Security Studies.