|
This survey
was conducted to gather public opinion on development, environment
and social issues. The opinion survey was conducted in Baa Eydhafushi
from 1st to 3rd of July 2003. Baa Eydhafushi is 59 miles away
from Male, the capital of Maldives. Eydhafushi is the capital
of Baa Atoll with a total population of 2,718. The survey covered
10% of the population and included different genders and age groups,
as well as people from different backgrounds.
A survey form
with 30 open-ended questions was used to conduct individual interviews.
About 19 students from the Baa Atoll Education Centre were selected
to conduct the survey. Each student was assigned to interview
15 persons of varied social background, gender and age. The purpose
and the objectives of the survey were described and the survey
form was fully explained to all the participating students.
In general,
the survey was well received and people were willing to talk,
although a few showed reluctance to answer some questions because
of a lack of awareness about particular issues.
Priority social
issues included a lack of community spirit and teamwork leading
to increased conflicts - this is partly a result of the fact that
many residents have been resettled from nearby islands. Another
issue was increased drug use particularly among the youth. Priority
environmental issues were beach erosion and a lack of a garbage
collection system and designated area for garbage disposal. Priority
development needs included, health, sanitation, waste disposal,
roads and education. The majority of the respondents noted that
upgrading educational facilities and building human resources
were the most important future development needs.
Highlights
from the survey as well as the full
report and questionnaire form have been completed.
|
