The Maldives National University (MNU) implements a range of initiatives to help mitigate food insecurity among students by promoting access to healthy, nutritious, and affordable food options while supporting students’ financial capacity to meet their dietary needs. These initiatives contribute to student wellbeing, food security, and an inclusive learning environment.
Access to Healthy and Affordable Food Choices on Campus
MNU supports students’ access to food through food outlets located within its campuses and nearby cafés. These outlets offer a range of healthy and affordable meal options, with 10% discounts provided to MNU students to help reduce the cost of meals. In addition, vending machines provide convenient access to food and refreshments on campus. Together, these facilities help students access food during their academic activities and support their nutritional needs throughout the day.
Located in the open area of the Faculty of Education (FE) Building at MNU Central Campus, SHOT Uni operated under Solite Restaurant, provides a convenient space for staff and students to purchase food and beverages. The café offers an accessible option for those seeking refreshments or a quick meal during the working or academic day. Staff members are entitled to a 10% discount on purchases, helping make the café’s offerings more affordable for the University community. The menu features vegan and vegetarian dishes providing variety of food choices for staff and students.
The MNU Business School cafe’ offers a range of food and beverage options in a calm and welcoming environment, providing staff and students with a convenient place to enjoy meals and refreshments on campus. Staff are offered a 10% discount at the canteen. Brewster menu also features vegan and vegetarian options catering to the staff and student food preferences.
Manhattan Fish Market, located within the premises of MNU Central Campus, provides another accessible dining option for staff working at the campus. Staff and student can also benefit from a 10% discount at this outlet. The restaurant provides a vegan and vegetarian menu for customers. Together, these facilities offer additional dining choices and provide financial benefits to staff through discounted purchases.
Silver Catering provides a breakfast buffet at Manhattan Fish Market during breakfast hours, offering staff and students an additional option for their morning meal. The breakfast buffet features vegan and vegetarian dishes catering different customer preferences and requirements. The service features a selection of breakfast foods and beverages, and staff are eligible for a 10% discount.
Bread Matters Gallery located nearby MNU Central Campus, provides a convenient and accessible dining option for staff and students on campus. Staff and students can also enjoy a 10% discount at this outlet. The restaurant provides a vegan and vegetarian menu for customers This facility offers an additional dining choice while providing financial benefits to the campus community through discounted purchases.
Blended Learning Delivery Model to Support Food Affordability
MNU’s blended learning delivery model provides students with greater flexibility to balance their academic commitments with employment opportunities. By enabling students to work while pursuing their studies, this approach helps them generate income to meet essential living expenses, including nutritious meals and groceries. The flexibility of the delivery model can also help students manage their time and financial responsibilities more effectively, strengthening their capacity to access adequate food while continuing their education.
Through these initiatives, MNU seeks to address food insecurity by combining access to affordable food with flexible learning opportunities that support students’ financial independence and overall wellbeing. These efforts contribute to a supportive campus environment in which students can pursue their education while maintaining access to essential nutritional resources.