During a visit to Nolhivaranfaru School as part of the Our Earth, Our Futures (OEOF) project (an MNU Research Grant), upon request from the school management a professional development workshop for 32 teachers was conducted. The workshop was held on 1 February 2025, facilitated by Dr Claire Lee (Oxford Brookes University), Dr Aminath Shiyama and Dr Fathimath Shafeeqa, OEOF project researchers. The workshop aimed to strengthen teachers’ professional knowledge and enhance their pedagogical practices through reflection, collaboration and the exploration of innovative approaches to teaching and learning. The session focused on effective teaching strategies that promote active student participation, critical thinking, creativity and collaborative learning. Discussions explored the importance of creating engaging and inclusive classroom environments, understanding diverse student learning needs, and making learning more meaningful by connecting classroom activities with students’ everyday experiences.

In the workshop teachers had opportunities to reflect on their existing teaching practices and explore practical approaches to lesson planning, classroom engagement, questioning techniques, group work and experiential learning. Emphasis was placed on the role of teachers as facilitators of learning, encouraging students to become active participants in constructing knowledge rather than passive recipients of information.

The workshop also provided a valuable opportunity for Dr Claire Lee to share some of her experiences with the UK teachers on understanding students and their needs inside the classroom, including the role of dialogue in classroom teaching, and strengthening teachers’ confidence in applying diverse pedagogical approaches in their classrooms. The initiative reflects the importance of continuous professional development in supporting teachers to respond to evolving educational needs and enhance the quality of teaching and learning. It also reinforces the value of collaborative learning and reflective practice in building a supportive and effective school learning environment.

Activities such as these embodies MNU’s strong community reach activities and targeted work towards SDG4 and SDG 17.