MNU’s dedicated Community Outreach Educational Activities for Sustainable Development

The Maldives National University (MNU) conducts dedicated outreach and educational activities for the wider community, including alumni, local residents, and displaced populations. Through its continuous engagement initiatives, MNU maintains strong connections with its alumni network, who actively contribute to mentoring programs, career talks, and professional development workshops that enhance the employability and leadership skills of current students and recent graduates.

MNU also works closely with local communities across different atolls to deliver public awareness programs, short courses, and training workshops on topics such as environmental sustainability, health promotion, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy. These initiatives empower communities to apply practical knowledge for improving livelihoods and resilience, especially in areas vulnerable to climate change and socio-economic challenges.

Furthermore, MNU extends its outreach to displaced and vulnerable groups, providing access to education and capacity-building opportunities through flexible and inclusive programs. These efforts include community-based learning initiatives and awareness campaigns designed to support social inclusion and equitable access to knowledge. Through these multi-level outreach programs, MNU strengthens its role as a national institution that not only educates but also uplifts and empowers society in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.

In celebration of World Health Day, Medicos, Healers, and Neares—three branches of The Maldives National University Students’ Union (MNUSU)—jointly organised the “MNUSU Healthy Eid” community health event. As part of the initiative, health screening stalls were set up, offering free weight and height assessment, blood pressure checks, and blood sugar testing. A total of 90 individuals benefited from these services.

This annual collaboration marks the third consecutive year that the three student branches have come together to celebrate World Health Day, demonstrating a strong and growing partnership in promoting community wellbeing. A series of additional health-related activities is also planned throughout the year. This initiative reflects MNU’s commitment to strengthening health partnerships by working closely with national health stakeholders to expand health education, provide essential services, and enhance public awareness on preventive healthcare.

The Consortium of Medical Students – Medicos, a wing of the Maldives National University Students’ Union (MNUSU) at the School of Medicine, together with the University’s Kulhudhuffushi Campus Gurz, is organizing the MNUSU 10K Steps Initiative as part of MNU’s ongoing commitment to community well-being.

Aligned with the University’s SDG-inspired outreach efforts—such as the Fahi Sihhath programme, which brings health education and basic screenings directly to communities—the 10K Steps initiative aims to raise public awareness on the importance of daily physical activity, particularly the proven health benefits of walking 10,000 steps a day.

This initiative encourages individuals, families, and communities to adopt simple, sustainable habits that reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases and promote lifelong wellness. By mobilizing medical students and campus volunteers, MNU continues to foster a culture of preventive health, empowerment, and community engagement across the Maldives.

The Center for Foundation Studies of the Maldives National University has launched the “MNUSU Food Drive,” a meaningful community initiative aimed at supporting families in need in Addu City. The campaign, which began on Thursday, 28 March 2024, has set up collection stalls at both the Hithadhoo Campus and the Central Administration Building of MNU.

The food drive has received strong public support, reflecting the community’s willingness to come together for a shared humanitarian cause. This initiative demonstrates MNU’s commitment to extending learning, compassion, and social responsibility beyond the campus, while actively engaging students and staff in service to the community.

Through initiatives like the MNUSU Food Drive, MNU continues to strengthen community engagement and public outreach, fostering a culture of civic responsibility and meaningful partnership with local communities.

To commemorate Housekeeping Week, the School of Hospitality and Tourism Studies (SHATS) organized a beach clean-up with 30 SHATS student leaders participating. Held on Saturday, 14 September 2024, from 16:45 to 18:00, the activity focused on the beach opposite Salman Mosque, where students collected a significant amount of waste, filling multiple black bags.

This was the first community engagement activity of the semester for SHATS and marked the first major clean-up conducted by the group since their 2022 collaboration with PALE.

Aligned with MNU’s commitment to working closely with NGOs and community partners, this initiative strengthens efforts in coastal protection, environmental awareness, and community resilience. By mobilizing students for hands-on environmental action, MNU fosters responsible citizenship and contributes meaningfully to national sustainability priorities.