The Maldives National University (MNU) is delighted and honoured to announce that its Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam, has been elected as a Full Board Member of the International Association of Universities (IAU) Administrative Board for the 2026–2030 term.

The new Administrative Board was confirmed following the election process held in conjunction with the IAU 17th General Conference, hosted by Murdoch University in Perth, Australia, on 5 November 2026.

Established in 1950 under the auspices of UNESCO, the International Association of Universities is a global association of higher education institutions and organisations, bringing together nearly 600 members from more than 120 countries. The IAU serves as an important international platform for university leaders to exchange knowledge, strengthen cooperation and collectively address challenges and opportunities facing higher education worldwide.

The IAU Administrative Board brings together university leaders from across the world who contribute to the Association’s governance, strategic direction and priorities. Serving on the Board provides an opportunity to participate in international higher education leadership and contribute to discussions and decisions that support the Association’s global membership.

Dr. Shehenaz’s election is a significant international honour for The Maldives National University and a meaningful recognition for Maldivian higher education. It provides an important opportunity for MNU to contribute to global discussions on the future of higher education, strengthen international partnerships and bring the perspectives and experiences of small island developing states such as the Maldives to the international stage.

Expressing her gratitude for the confidence placed in her, Dr. Shehenaz said:

“I am deeply honoured and grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me. I accept this responsibility with humility and a sincere commitment to contributing meaningfully to the work of the IAU. This is also a significant honour for The Maldives National University and our higher education community.

I sincerely hope that this opportunity will help strengthen MNU’s visibility and engagement in the international higher education community, build meaningful partnerships and open new avenues for collaboration that will benefit our students, staff and researchers.

For small island nations such as the Maldives, international cooperation is especially important. We have much to learn from others, and we also have valuable experiences, knowledge and perspectives to share. I look forward to working with colleagues from around the world, learning from one another and contributing to our shared efforts to make higher education more inclusive, accessible and responsive to the needs of our communities.”

The election also reflects MNU’s continued commitment to strengthening its international engagement, building meaningful partnerships and contributing to the advancement of higher education beyond national boundaries. It presents opportunities for greater knowledge exchange, institutional collaboration and participation in international initiatives that can benefit students, staff, researchers and the wider Maldivian community.

MNU extends its warm congratulations to Dr. Shehenaz on this honour and wishes her every success in undertaking this important international responsibility.

Relevant Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 4 – Quality Education; SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals.