Establish and improve more public services and schemes

To address labor concerns and promote fair labor practices within atoll communities, a dedicated contact point should be established within the council. This contact point will provide essential information on labor rights, assist with filing complaints, facilitate communication between employers and employees, and represent the atoll community's concerns to the national Labor Relations Authority (LRA). By monitoring labor issues and promoting ethical labor practices, the council can contribute to improving working conditions and ensuring the well-being of atoll residents.

By leveraging technology, the licensing process can be significantly modernized to improve efficiency, security, and convenience for applicants. This modernization will enable reduced waiting times, online access to services, enhanced security measures, a wider scope of services, and improved customer service. A digital platform for applications, data integration, mobile apps, and digital literacy training will be essential components of this transformation.

To foster a thriving local business environment, atoll councils should establish a dedicated unit within their secretariats to support entrepreneurs. This unit can provide essential information, assist with licensing procedures, and connect businesses with valuable resources. Offering training programs, mentorship, and opportunities for networking and collaboration will further empower local businesses. By collecting data on business challenges and advocating for supportive policies, the council can play a pivotal role in improving the overall business environment for atoll residents.

To effectively support atoll communities, it is crucial to understand the existing national services and programs. This involves creating a comprehensive list of relevant initiatives, assessing their accessibility, availability, and resource allocation, and evaluating their effectiveness and impact on atoll residents through data and feedback. By identifying gaps, barriers, and potential areas for tailored programs, atoll councils can advocate for improvements and ensure that these communities receive the necessary support.

To ensure the successful integration and delivery of national programs within the atoll, it is crucial to build strong collaborative relationships with relevant government agencies and authorities. By working together, these entities can effectively align national programs with the specific needs and priorities of the atoll community, ensuring their maximum impact and benefit.

To enhance the accessibility and efficiency of council services, it is essential to provide clear and easily accessible information about available services, eligibility criteria, fees, and application procedures. Equipping the council desk with computers, scanners, and internet access will enable residents to independently submit applications for various services. Integrating secure online payment gateways will streamline the process by eliminating the need for cash transactions. Additionally, allowing residents to track the status of their applications online will reduce the necessity for multiple visits to the council. Finally, providing basic self-help tools, such as forms, calculators, and online resources, will empower residents to complete applications and understand eligibility requirements without requiring assistance from council staff.

To create a vibrant and collaborative workspace for atoll residents, the council will establish a co-working space equipped with essential amenities such as desks, chairs, meeting rooms, and common areas with internet access, and basic office supplies. Offering flexible membership options, ranging from daily to monthly plans, will cater to diverse needs and budgets. To foster a sense of community and facilitate networking, the co-working space can organize events, workshops, and networking sessions. Additionally, exploring opportunities to offer value-added services, such as legal or accounting consultations, business development workshops, or childcare facilities, can further enhance the space's appeal and benefits for members.

To effectively address the needs of atoll communities, it is essential to conduct thorough needs assessments across various sectors. By identifying key challenges and gaps, prioritizing needs based on urgency and feasibility, and exploring potential solutions, atoll councils can develop well-targeted proposals for new services or schemes. These proposals should outline objectives, target beneficiaries, delivery mechanisms, resource requirements, and potential funding sources. Advocating for these proposals with national agencies, development partners, and the private sector is crucial to secure the necessary resources for implementation.