The Maldives National University (MNU) Vice Chancellor, Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam, highlighted the growing importance of research, innovation, and academic excellence at the opening ceremony of the Theveli Conference 2026, emphasizing the vital role of homegrown research in addressing national and global challenges.

In her opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor warmly welcomed all conference participants and expressed her appreciation for the presence of the Chief Guest, First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed. She noted that the First Lady’s presence serves as a profound source of encouragement to the MNU community and reflects her commitment to education and research.

The Vice Chancellor revealed that this year’s conference received more than 300 research abstracts, marking a record number in the history of the Theveli Conference. She expressed hope that the knowledge, ideas, and research shared throughout the conference would create meaningful benefits for the Maldives and the wider global community.

“Research has the power to illuminate new possibilities, address the challenges we face, and create meaningful change for our communities and the world.”

Dr. Shehenaz emphasized the importance of strengthening homegrown research to respond to rapid global transformations driven by Artificial Intelligence, while also addressing the environmental vulnerabilities and geographical challenges unique to the Maldives. She expressed her gratitude to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and the Maldivian Government for according special priority to research.

New Opportunities for Academic Advancement

A key highlight of the opening ceremony was the announcement of significant opportunities for academic advancement at MNU.  For the first time in the history of the Maldives National University, applications for the position of Professor are now open, marking an important milestone in strengthening academic excellence and providing a pathway for academics aspiring to reach the highest echelon of the academic profession.

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted opportunities at the Assistant Professor level, supporting the continued development and progression of MNU’s academic workforce. These initiatives reflect the University’s commitment to strengthening its academic community and creating clear pathways for career advancement.

Dr. Shehenaz further highlighted the awarding of research grants and PhD scholarships as part of MNU’s continued efforts to strengthen its research culture. She noted that the University aims to establish at least one PhD programme in every faculty by the end of 2027, further expanding opportunities for advanced research and postgraduate education.

“Our goal is to establish at least one PhD programme in every faculty by the end of 2027, strengthening our research capacity and creating greater opportunities for the next generation of researchers.”

The Vice Chancellor concluded her remarks by congratulating the recipients of this year’s Theveli Awards and expressing her gratitude to the Deputy Vice Chancellor, staff, students, researchers, and all those involved in organizing the conference.

The Theveli Conference 2026 brings together researchers, academics, students, and professionals to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and showcase research addressing issues of national, regional, and global significance. The record number of abstracts received this year further reflects the growing research engagement and academic capacity within the MNU community.