Malé, Maldives – November 28th – The Maldives National University (MNU) successfully hosted an afternoon tea reception for a visiting delegation of 14 students from the University of Newcastle (UoN), Australia. Held on the 28th of November, the event significantly strengthened the academic and cultural ties between the institutions and nations.
The reception was organized by MNU’s Student Support Services (SSS) in partnership with the Australian High Commission (HC). The primary goal was to provide a warm Maldivian welcome and foster direct interaction between the visiting UoN students, MNU students, and staff. The event successfully brought together approximately 80 attendees.
The core of the afternoon’s success was the vibrant cultural showcase, managed entirely by The Maldives National University Student Union (MNUSU). The Student Union’s leadership in running such a high-profile international event underscores MNU’s commitment to providing students with opportunities to develop their talents and gain hands-on learning experiences beyond the classroom. These student-led initiatives are vital for building confidence and organisational skills.
The agenda featured a spirited Bodu Beru performance by the MNUSU’s cultural group. Following the captivating display, UoN students were enthusiastically invited to join in and learn some of the traditional Maldivian dance moves, which led to moments of lively interaction and laughter.
The social segment allowed students from both universities to mingle, discuss academic life, and network with diplomatic and senior administrative staff from both the Australian HC and MNU.
SSS is pleased to note that the MNUSU’s Media team provided excellent photo coverage of the event, ensuring that the highlights of this positive international exchange are documented and shared widely.
MNU remains deeply committed to developing robust international partnerships that enrich the experience of its students and staff, and looks forward to similar successful collaborations in the future, especially those that provide our students with practical, invaluable experience in event management and cultural diplomacy.