The Faculty of Arts, The Maldives National University (MNU), today held a ceremony, “Celebrating Professional Growth and Global Connections”, recognising achievements in international connections, professional development, and knowledge exchange across borders.
The event was honoured by Her Excellency Ishigami Rumiko, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, and His Excellency David Jessup, Australian High Commissioner to the Maldives, as Guests of Honour. Bringing together four different learning journeys, the event highlighted the Faculty’s commitment to creating opportunities for people to learn, grow, and connect at different stages of their professional journeys.
The celebration recognised the successful completion of the 30-hour Japanese Language Course for Maldives Customs Officials, conducted from 10 August to 21 September 2026 in collaboration with the Japan Foundation. The programme provided participants with Japanese language and professional learning opportunities while also responding to a national need in a country with a strong reliance on the tourism sector.
The event also recognised lecturers from the Department of Arabic Language, Faculty of Arts, who participated in a professional development programme at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) from 6–9 September 2026. The programme focused on academic and research collaboration, faculty exchange, community service, curriculum development, institutional programmes, and cultural exchange.
The event further recognised Faculty of Arts members who participated in a Faculty Development Programme in Perth, Western Australia, in collaboration with Curtin University, as well as participants of the Professional Development Workshop on Library & Information Services, held in Perth, Australia from 9–19 September 2026 in collaboration with the Maldives Library Association and Curtin University. The workshop brought together MNU Library and Information Science students, alumni, and members of the wider LIS community, providing opportunities to observe professional practice, exchange knowledge, and gain international exposure. The Australian programmes also provided MNU faculty members with opportunities to present their research at academic forums and engage with international academic and professional communities.
In highlighting the importance of these initiatives, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts noted that professional development should go beyond obtaining certificates by providing new perspectives, ideas, and skills that can strengthen the communities served by the professionals. The Dean also acknowledged the support of MNU leadership, Curtin University, the Australian High Commission, the Japan Foundation, the Embassy of Japan, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, the Maldives Library Association, and the staff and participants who contributed to the programmes. Through these initiatives, the Faculty continues to promote lifelong learning, professional skills development, knowledge exchange, and international partnerships, contributing to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
