The Scout Association of Maldives hosted a memorable Jamboree-on-the-Air (JOTA) and Jamboree-on-the-Internet (JOTI) event on October 19th, 2024, at Hiriya School. This year’s JOTA-JOTI brought together Scouts from across the Maldives, with more than 70 Scout Groups participating individually and at the group level. The event, held from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offered opportunities for connection, learning, and celebrating the spirit of Scouting.
A Weekend of Connection and Learning
JOTA-JOTI is the world’s largest digital Scout event, engaging over 2 million Scouts globally each October. By combining radio communications with internet-based activities, this event allows Scouts to experience the wonder of reaching across borders to form friendships and share Scouting experiences with their peers worldwide. This year, the Maldives’ participation was stronger than ever, with over 400 Scouts gathering at the JOTA Centre at Hiriya School, and more than 700 others joining in virtually from their homes and Scout halls.
Radio Waves and Digital Connections
The Maldives Amateur Radio Society served as the Official Amateur Radio Partner for JOTA (Jamboree-on-the-Air), guiding Scouts in radio communication. Using the callsign 8Q7PR (Eight-Quebec-Seven-Papa-Romeo), Scouts made real-time conversations with peers Maldives and around the globe. For many Scouts, it was their first time using amateur radio, and they quickly grew to appreciate the technology that has connected Scouts globally since 1958.
On the Digital side, Dhiraagu, the Digital Partner for the National Event, ensured reliable internet connectivity throughout the event. Scouts engaged in various online activities, including webinars, live shows, and interactive games, using their devices to connect with fellow Scouts around the world. Through video calls and online chat sessions, they shared stories and learned about Scouting in other countries, fostering a deeper sense of global fellowship.
Individual and Group-Level Participation
Scouts across the Maldives took part in JOTA-JOTI not just at the National Event but also through their Local Scout groups. These groups engaged in activities ranging from JOTA-JOTI online challenges to conference calls with local and international Scouts. This format allowed Scouts to enjoy the event in their own communities while still feeling part of the worldwide celebration.
Fun Zones and Creative Challenges
The JOTA-JOTI event also featured Fun Zones, where Scouts could explore offline activities. They tested their geographical knowledge with the Scout Geo Guesser game, which allowed them to virtually explore landmarks from around the globe. Origami sessions provided a chance for creative expression, as Scouts learned new folding techniques and shared their unique creations with fellow participants.
Strengthening the Spirit of Scouting
This year’s JOTA-JOTI event in the Maldives was a true celebration of the Scouting spirit, strengthening both technical skills and a sense of global community among Scouts. As Scouts connected through radio waves and digital platforms, they discovered the power of communication in bridging distances and forming friendships across the world.
The Scout Association of Maldives is grateful to the Maldives Amateur Radio Society for their expertise in Amateur Radio, Dhiraagu for providing the internet connectivity that made the event possible, and all the dedicated Scouts, Rovers, Leaders and Volunteers who made this experience unforgettable. Together, we created memories that will last a lifetime, showcasing the values of Scouting and the joy of connecting with friends, near and far.
Here’s to another successful JOTA-JOTI, and to many more years of bringing Scouts together, one radio wave and digital signal at a time!
