The Maldives National University (MNU) proudly celebrates a historic milestone as Ismail Raahil becomes the University’s first hearing-impaired graduate to earn a Bachelor’s degree. Raahil graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from the Faculty of Engineering, Science and Technology (FEST) during the third session of MNU’s Term 2 Graduation Ceremony held today.

Raahil’s academic journey reflects years of determination, perseverance and the unwavering support of his family. Having pursued his early education at Jamaluddin School, where he attended specialised classes for hearing-impaired students, he completed his O-Level examinations in 2018 before obtaining an Advanced Certificate in Information Technology from MNU. He subsequently continued his studies towards a bachelor’s degree, overcoming various challenges throughout his academic journey.

During his studies, communication barriers and difficulties in accessing spoken instructions presented significant challenges. However, with encouragement from his family and the dedicated support of his lecturers, Raahil continued to pursue his academic goals. The assistance of Mr. Saeed, a former teacher at Jamaluddin School and currently an MNU lecturer, was particularly instrumental in supporting him throughout this journey. The cooperation and understanding demonstrated by MNU lecturers also provided him with opportunities to seek clarification and engage in his studies.

His mother’s continued involvement in his education, together with his family’s encouragement and commitment, played an important role in helping him complete his degree. Raahil’s achievement reflects not only his personal dedication but also the collective efforts of those who supported him along the way.

Currently employed at the State Electric Company Limited (STELCO), Raahil’s accomplishment marks an important milestone for the University and the wider community. His success reinforces MNU’s commitment to providing accessible and inclusive higher education opportunities, where students are supported in overcoming barriers and achieving their full academic potential.

MNU extends its heartfelt congratulations to Ismail Raahil on this outstanding achievement and wishes him continued success in his professional and personal journey.

Raahil’s achievement reflects the importance of inclusive and equitable access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities. His journey highlights the value of creating supportive learning environments that recognise individual needs, remove barriers to participation and enable every student to realise their potential. It also reinforces the importance of promoting equal opportunities, accessibility and inclusion within higher education and the workplace, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.