The Maldives National University (MNU) and CINEC Campus Private Limited, Sri Lanka, have formalised a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration in maritime education, training, research, and other areas of mutual interest.

The ceremony was attended by Vice-Chancellor of MNU, Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam, representatives from CINEC Campus, including Dr. Sujatha Walpola, Dean of the Faculty of Maritime Studies, Captain Mohamed Zaid, distinguished guests, and members of the MNU community.

The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration between MNU and CINEC Campus in areas including academic and professional research, education and training, knowledge sharing, and other areas of mutual interest. The partnership is expected to create opportunities for both institutions to exchange expertise and strengthen professional capacity in the maritime sector.

The signing also comes following the renaming of MNU’s Centre for Maritime Studies (CMS) as the Faculty of Maritime Studies, reflecting the University’s continued efforts to strengthen and expand maritime education and training. The transition to a faculty-level structure further supports the development of advanced academic and professional opportunities within the maritime field.

Speaking at the ceremony, Captain Mohamed Zaid highlighted CINEC Campus’s strong reputation and 36 years of experience in maritime education and training, as well as its longstanding contribution to the training of Maldivian maritime professionals. He emphasised the importance of regional and international partnerships in advancing MNU’s academic and professional development.

Captain Zaid noted that the partnership comes at a significant time as the maritime industry undergoes rapid changes driven by digitalisation, alternative fuels, sustainable operations, and evolving international standards. Referring to the ongoing review of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention, he stressed the importance of ensuring that maritime education and training remain aligned with the changing needs of the industry.

As part of these developments, high-level maritime courses are expected to commence at MNU soon, following a gap of more than 30 years. The introduction of these courses will provide new opportunities for Maldivian maritime professionals to pursue advanced education and training locally and contribute to strengthening the country’s maritime workforce.

Through this strategic partnership, the Maldives National University reaffirms its commitment to advancing maritime education, strengthening professional capacity, and supporting the development of a skilled maritime workforce. By fostering collaboration in education, research, training, and knowledge exchange, the partnership will create opportunities for academic and professional advancement, encourage innovation in maritime practices, and strengthen regional cooperation to address the evolving needs of the maritime industry.