The Professional Development Workshop on Library & Information Services (PDWL 2024) was conducted in Indonesia, providing an international experiential learning opportunity for BA Library and Information Management (BA-LIM) students and alumni. The programme brought together participants for professional learning and knowledge exchange focused on contemporary library and information services.

The workshop strengthened participants’ professional capabilities and technical competencies by providing exposure to modern approaches in library and information services, including data literacy and digital library practices. These learning opportunities contribute to improving the quality of academic support, research environments, and information services available to communities in the Maldives.

By equipping emerging and practising information professionals with relevant and technology-driven skills, the programme supported continued professional development and strengthened participants’ capacity to remain effective and adaptable in a changing work environment. This contributes to decent work and economic growth through the development of relevant professional skills and lifelong learning.

The international nature of the workshop also demonstrated the value of global partnerships and knowledge exchange in strengthening local professional capacity. Collaboration between institutions across countries enabled participants to access international expertise and learning experiences, while supporting the transfer of knowledge and professional practices that can contribute to the continued development of library and information services in the Maldives.

The initiative aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education, 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and 17: Partnerships for the Goals.