MNU contributes to SDG 6 by pomoting Conscious Water Usage in the Wider Community through educational outreach, research, stakeholder engagement and awareness initiatives that encourage responsible water use and sustainable water management. Key activities include conducting handwashing awareness programmes for 190 preschool children, engaging vulnerable communities in discussions on water accessibility and security through the RECOVER project, and undertaking research on island water demand patterns across the Maldives. Through community education, scientific research and collaboration with national and international partners, MNU promotes responsible water consumption, improved hygiene practices and greater awareness of water conservation, contributing to sustainable water management within Maldivian communities.

1. Community Handwashing Awareness Programme – Falah Preschool

On 8 September 2025, MNU conducted a handwashing awareness programme for 190 preschool children and teachers at Falah Preschool. Lecturers and second-semester nursing students demonstrated proper handwashing techniques and engaged children in practical demonstrations. The programme promoted awareness of hygiene, sanitation and the responsible use of water in maintaining public health. By introducing good hygiene practices at an early age, MNU contributes to building a more informed and health-conscious community.

2. Research on Island Water Demand Patterns in the Maldives

MNU contributes to sustainable water management through research titled Unveiling Island Water Demand Patterns: A Comparative Analysis Across Scales in the Maldives, published in 2025. Conducted by MNU researchers in collaboration with the Fenaka Institute for Training and Research, the study examines water-demand patterns across different scales in the Maldives. This research provides evidence to support better understanding of water consumption, resource requirements and planning for sustainable water supply. The findings can help inform water conservation strategies and encourage more responsible water use within island communities.

3. RECOVER Project – Community Engagement on Water Accessibility and Security

Through the international RECOVER project (Resilience to Climate Vulnerability and Environmental Risk), MNU conducted stakeholder consultations and community engagement activities in Malé during 2025. These activities involved vulnerable community groups to understand challenges associated with water accessibility, availability and security, particularly during climate-related crises. The initiative incorporated community perspectives into research and policy recommendations, supporting inclusive water-resource planning and promoting awareness of the importance of sustainable water management.

4. Household Water Usage Survey – Malé

As part of the RECOVER project, MNU conducted a household water-usage survey from October to December 2025. The survey collected information on household water consumption to improve understanding of water-use patterns and demand in Malé. The collected data is intended to support research on urban water security, resource management and climate resilience. This initiative contributes to evidence-based strategies for promoting responsible water consumption and improving sustainable water planning within the wider community.

5. Information Session on Water Conservation – MNU Kulhudhuffushi Campus

In collaboration with the Utility Regulatory Authority (URA), MNU Kulhudhuffushi Campus conducted an information session on 17 August 2025 to promote awareness of sustainable utility consumption. The session engaged 16 MNU staff and nine URA staff, providing practical guidance on water conservation, responsible utility usage and sustainable waste management. The initiative encouraged participants to adopt environmentally responsible practices and apply water-saving behaviours in their daily lives and communities.