Requests for tailored staff sessions, council-wide awareness and future psychological first aid training emerged from discussions involving 42 university and community participants.

An Open Discussion on Mental Health was organised by MNU Hithadhoo Campus in collaboration with the MNU Faculty of Health Sciences on 22 October 2026. Facilitated by Ms Zeenath Shakir, Lecturer at the Faculty, the programme brought together 25 MNU staff, eight staff members from four local institutions and nine students across two sessions.

The participating institutions were Addu City Council, Hithadhoo School, Hira School and Addu High School. Staff explored stigma, stress, the relationship between mental and physical health, and the role of social support through six discussion groups. A separate student session addressed self-care, coping strategies and where to seek help.

What participants found useful

In 25 feedback forms collected separately by the facilitator, participants most frequently identified the overview of mental health and the role of social support as helpful. They also valued discussions on stigma and the link between mental and physical health.

Respondents reported learning about helping and listening, the mental health continuum, appropriate professional support and different ways to manage stress. Suggestions included more group activities, games, videos, longer sessions and information from a psychiatrist.

Requests for further training

Council staff member Shadheedha recommended sessions tailored to supervisory responsibilities, with separate provision for administrative and support staff. Siuna from Feydhoo Town Office requested a session for the council workforce and participation in future psychological first aid training. Campus management agreed to take these recommendations forward in planning.

Senior Lecturer Mohamed Jameel described the programme as a worthwhile pause during a busy academic semester. He encouraged further sessions and more frequent jaba—informal, spontaneous shared meals that help colleagues connect.

Connecting campus learning with community needs

The programme brought university staff, students and local institutions into a shared discussion on mental health. The feedback and requests for follow-up training provide practical directions for future workplace and student well-being education.

The initiative supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), alongside MNU priorities for staff development, supportive learning environments and community engagement.