The Maldives National University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Driftwood Maldives Private Limited, marking a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between academia and the hospitality industry to advance ocean, environmental, and climate research in the Maldives. The agreement was formally signed by Mr. Asad Ali Managing Director of Driftwood Maldives and Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam, Vice chancellor of MNU.
This strategic partnership aims to enhance research capacity, provide practical training opportunities, and support data-driven climate research in a country that is on the frontline of climate change. Through this collaboration, MNU’s Master’s and PhD students will have access to dedicated research facilities, tools, and equipment based within resort environments, enabling hands-on learning and advanced scientific investigation.
Enhancing students’ research skills remains a core priority of MNU. The University has consistently fostered partnerships with local and international research institutions, environmental organizations, and resort-based marine laboratories. These collaborations allow students to gain practical experience across a range of research settings, from foundational laboratory work to advanced marine and reef ecosystem studies conducted in partnership with international universities and experts. MNU also continues to strengthen ties with environmental NGOs such as Maldives Resilient Reefs, Reef scapers, and the Olive Ridley Project.
Under the newly signed MOU, students will benefit from structured research placements, practical training opportunities, and access to professional laboratory environments. The partnership further enables student engagement at multiple resort locations operated under the Hyatt brand, significantly expanding opportunities for experiential learning in ocean sciences and climate research.
The initiative also supports MNU’s vision of promoting open-access and collaborative research models, ensuring that data generated in the Maldives contributes to both national development and global climate knowledge.
