Alumni Stories 2023

In 2003, Dr. Mohamed Umar began his academic journey at the Faculty of Education, Maldives College of Higher Education (now The Maldives National University), enrolling in the Bachelor of Teaching Secondary (English Language and Economics) program. This marked the first and most significant step in his path toward becoming one of the leading figures in Maldivian education.

Graduating first in his class, Dr. Mohamed Umar went on to serve as a dedicated and qualified teacher, shaping the minds of young learners with passion and purpose. His pursuit of excellence led him to earn a Master of Education from the University of Melbourne, further strengthening his expertise and commitment to advancing the education sector in the Maldives.

Driven by dedication and a deep love for his community, Dr. Mohamed Umar continues to make a remarkable impact. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Education and as the Campus Manager of MNU Kulhudhuffushi Campus.

Throughout his career, Dr. Mohamed Umar has made invaluable contributions to the field of education. He strongly believes that the quality of one’s learning experience depends on dedication and depth of engagement. He often emphasizes that education is not about taking shortcuts, but about genuine effort and growth.

“Study is a process. It can only improve your level if you are involved full-time — with your heart, body, and soul.”

Dr. Mohamed Umar’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and purpose — a shining example of what it means to be an MNU alumnus.

Aishath Jazly completed her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the MNU Business School in 2020. Her journey reflects the strength and resilience of a learner determined to grow, adapt, and lead in an ever-changing world.

Jazly often shares that the transition from studying to working is never simple — real-world challenges require confidence, experience, and the right skills. For her, the MBA program at The Maldives National University played a transformative role in helping her understand the dynamics of the workplace and shaping her path forward.

She firmly believes that the MNU MBA program is designed with the modern professional in mind—aligned with industry needs, structured for real-world application, and taught by experienced lecturers who bring valuable insights to the classroom. Throughout her studies, she gained diverse skills, learned from highly knowledgeable faculty members, and benefited from practical, meaningful learning opportunities.

Her journey was not without challenges. The global COVID-19 pandemic created uncertainty and disrupted academic life for many. Jazly recalls that completing her final semester during this period was extremely difficult. Yet, she highlights that MNU’s commitment to ensuring learning continued smoothly during the crisis was exceptional, and she deeply values how the university supported its students in overcoming those challenges.

Jazly has proudly served the Maldives in various roles, particularly in the field of higher education and teaching, contributing significantly to the development of students and the broader educational community. Her dedication to practical, impactful teaching has been recognized across many years, making her a valued contributor to national development.

As an alumna, Jazly expresses pride in being a part of the MNU community and in contributing to the nation as a product of its education. She remains committed to giving back and continuing the legacy of learning that shaped her journey.

For AA. Thoddoo’s own Abdullah Shiaz, the spark that ignited his passion for education came from an unexpected place — receiving a “U” grade in his English O/L exam. Instead of discouraging him, it became the turning point that lit the path toward a lifelong commitment to learning and teaching.

With his 2005 O/L results, Shiaz chose to continue his education through The Maldives National University, enrolling in the Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English as a Foreign Language. For him, MNU offered the most accessible and meaningful path toward a profession that would allow him to give back to his island and country. That decision became the foundation of a remarkable journey.

After completing his degree, Shiaz returned to his beloved island of Thoddoo with a mission: to improve English education for the next generation. His dedication soon bore fruit. Under his guidance, Thoddoo School achieved its first-ever English O/L “A” pass, and within just three years, the English pass rate reached 100%, bringing immense pride to the entire community. Among his many achievements, one stands out as especially meaningful to him — mentoring a student who went on to achieve a world-high result in English.

Committed to furthering his own professional growth, he later completed his Master of Education at MNU. Today, he continues to serve Thoddoo School with passion and purpose.

As someone entrusted with guiding and shaping young minds, Shiaz’s dream is clear: to nurture students who are loyal to their community and capable of serving their nation with integrity. He remains deeply proud to be an alumnus of The Maldives National University — the institution that empowered him to turn a setback into a lifelong purpose.

With more than 30 years of dedicated service in the education sector, Aishath Zaeema stands as one of the Maldives’ most respected and impactful educators. Her expertise spans mainstream education, special education, and inclusive education, making her a leading force in shaping inclusive learning environments across the nation.

Zaeema played a pivotal role in the development of the Inclusive Education Policy (2021) and has worked tirelessly to design inclusive education support units in various atolls. Her efforts have directly improved access and support for children with diverse learning needs, leaving a lasting and meaningful mark on the country’s education system.

Her journey began at The Maldives National University, where the Islamic values she embraced, the academic opportunities she received, and even the discipline instilled through morning exercise sessions helped shape her into the dedicated teacher she is today.

Over the years, her contributions have been widely recognized through numerous prestigious awards. In 2022, she received the National Award for Encouragement for her significant work in developing educational resources for children with special learning needs. In 2021, Queensland University of Technology in Australia honored her with the QUT Impact Ambassador to Maldives Award for her transformative, real-world contributions. Earlier, in 2014, she was presented the Disability Award for her outstanding technical services to people with special needs.

Beyond her professional achievements, Zaeema continues to give back to her alma mater as a volunteer instructor for the Special Needs Course at the Faculty of Education.

Her lifelong dedication to building a more inclusive and compassionate education system reflects the core values of MNU. We are proud to celebrate Aishath Zaeema as an inspiring alumna whose work continues to uplift communities across the Maldives.

Hushama Saeed, currently serving as the Assistant Director at the MNU School of Medicine, is a shining example of how determination and education can open doors to meaningful national service.

Her journey with the Maldives National University began at an MNU Open Day, where she was introduced to the wide range of academic opportunities available. Inspired by the pathways presented, she chose to pursue the Bachelor of Business at MNU — a program she believed would offer strong career prospects and broad professional growth.

Throughout her undergraduate studies, the guidance and support of her lecturers played a key role in shaping her academic path. Their mentorship encouraged her to continue her studies, ultimately leading her to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the MNU Business School.

Reflecting on her MBA experience, Hushama shares that the program significantly enriched both her work and personal life. The skills and knowledge she gained — particularly in management, leadership, and organizational operations — became invaluable tools in her professional journey. She describes the MBA as the foundation that strengthened her confidence and capability in the workplace.

Hushama began her national service at MNU as an Administrative Officer at the Faculty of Shariah and Law, later advancing to Senior Administrative Officer at the Policy and Quality Assurance Unit. With her growing expertise and strong academic background, she eventually took on the role of Head of Administration at the School of Medicine.

In this position, she has contributed significantly to strengthening the administrative systems of the School of Medicine and supporting its continuous development. Her efforts have directly supported students, faculty, and the overall mission of MNU.

Her commitment, hard work, and dedication to nation-building — especially through her contributions to the Maldives National University — make Hushama a valued and respected member of the MNU alumni community.

Hushma Saeed’s educational journey at The Maldives National University has been the driving force behind her professional growth and her contributions to the institution she now serves.

Her path began with the Bachelor of Business, a program she believes laid a strong foundation across key areas of management. Building on this, she pursued the Master of Business Administration (MBA) at MNU, where she expanded her knowledge, strengthened her leadership abilities, and learned to think strategically in a rapidly changing environment. The MBA equipped her with the skills to address workplace challenges, introduce innovative solutions, and contribute meaningfully to institutional development.

Today, Hushma serves as the Assistant Director of Human Resources at The Maldives National University, where she plays a vital role in the growth and modernization of the HR Department. She is particularly passionate about leveraging technology to enhance HR services — from streamlining processes to utilizing data analytics for informed decision-making and staying aligned with global best practices.

Hushma acknowledges the University’s well-designed curricula, its commitment to high teaching standards, and the lecturers who enrich learning with practical workplace insights. She credits these experiences for shaping her understanding of real-world organizational needs and preparing her to take on leadership responsibilities.

Her ongoing goal is to apply the education, skills, and experience gained from MNU to support the strategic development of the HR Department and contribute to the University’s overall mission.

For her dedication, service, and commitment to strengthening the Maldives National University, Hushma Saeed stands as a proud and inspiring member of the MNU alumni community.

Abdulla Shahneez, a proud graduate of The Maldives National University, has continued to contribute to the University and the nation through his dedicated service and strong commitment to youth empowerment. Alongside his professional role in the Maldives Police Service, he remains an active volunteer who gives his time and effort freely for the betterment of young people.

Shahneez has long been involved in student leadership and community service. During his years at MNU, he played a significant role in the MNU Students’ Union, ultimately serving as its President in 2021. In this role, he worked tirelessly to uplift the Union, strengthen student representation, and create meaningful opportunities for fellow students. His leadership helped many young people gain experiences that shaped them into confident and capable individuals.

Beyond the University, Shahneez continues to empower youth by conducting training programs, facilitating opportunities abroad, and encouraging young people to take on responsibilities in community development. His volunteer spirit and passion for guiding the next generation have made him a respected figure among youth across the country.

His impactful work has been recognized nationally. In 2022, Shahneez received the Youth Award for his contributions to youth empowerment. In addition, he was honored in the Youth Category for his dedication to voluntary service and community development, reflecting the high regard for his efforts.

Shahneez’s long-term goal is to inspire as many young people as possible to engage in volunteerism and leadership, helping build a more responsible and service-oriented generation.

MNU is proud of Abdulla Shahneez for his outstanding service to the University, the youth of the Maldives, and the nation.

Ismail Mohamed began his journey in education as a temporary teacher, gaining first-hand experience in the field before advancing to the role of Assistant Teacher. Today, having completed his Master of Teaching – Secondary, he serves proudly as a Leading Teacher at Dhihgaru School, a position that reflects his dedication, hard work, and passion for shaping young minds.

Ismail describes The Maldives National University as the foundation of his professional and personal growth. His time at MNU opened doors to opportunities that shaped his values, strengthened his commitment to service, and prepared him for a successful and meaningful career in education. He highlights the importance of teamwork, self-initiative, and contributing to the community—qualities nurtured during his years at the University.

His Bachelor of Teaching – Secondary (Mathematics) from MNU broadened his understanding of the subject and deepened his insight into teaching and learning. The course exposed him to new techniques, innovative ideas, and practical experiences that enriched his professional journey. Ismail especially recalls the supportive and welcoming environment created by MNU’s lecturers, staff, and fellow classmates—an experience he describes as truly exemplary.

Ismail fondly remembers the joyful learning atmosphere and the close friendships formed during his studies. Even years after completing his degree, the bond with his peers remains strong. Their continued support and shared experiences have helped Ismail enhance his work, ultimately benefiting the students he teaches today.

Reflecting on his academic journey, Ismail shares this message with aspiring learners:

“At the beginning of the journey to higher education, what you need most is respect, patience, and courage. With these, the path ahead becomes clear.”

MNU is proud of Ismail Mohamed’s achievements and his continued service to the nation as an inspiring educator.

Aishath Sama Abdullah began her academic journey at The Maldives National University Business School in 2015, enrolling in the Bachelor of Marketing program with a strong ambition to build a career in management. Her dedication to continuous learning later led her to complete her Master of Business Administration at the same faculty.

While similar programs exist around the world, Sama notes that the experience she gained at MNU is uniquely meaningful. She highlights that MNU’s programs are designed to equip students with practical, workplace-ready skills, allowing them to thrive in real professional settings. The opportunity to learn from lecturers with extensive experience in both government and leading private institutions enriched her understanding of the evolving business landscape.

Sama believes that MNU is not only an institution of higher education, but also a place that inspires lifelong learning, personal growth, and forward-thinking mindsets. It strengthened her ability to gather information, adapt to change, and envision new possibilities for the future. She considers her education at MNU a valuable inheritance—one she is proud to carry forward as part of her contribution to the nation.

Her academic journey shaped her into a professional who faces challenges with confidence and embraces new opportunities with determination. Today, Sama applies her knowledge and expertise across various government offices and private companies, contributing meaningfully to their development.

Sama values working in a positive environment and believes that collaboration and people-centered leadership strengthen an organization’s success. Her experience in the Marketing Department of MNU further enhanced her skills and deepened her commitment to national development.

The Maldives National University is proud of Aishath Sama Abdullah’s achievements and her continued service to the country.

Mariyam Lubna, a proud graduate of The Maldives National University Business School (Class of 2013), is known for her dedication, talent, and courage. Since 2021, she has been serving the University as a committed and capable staff member—someone her colleagues can always rely on.

Lubna is admired for her strong leadership, collaborative spirit, and readiness to support colleagues across departments whenever needed. Her work ethic, positivity, and active involvement in university initiatives make her stand out as a valuable member of the MNU community.

Lubna’s professional journey began in January 2011 at FHTS, where she played an important role until December of that year. She continued to pursue higher education with determination, prioritizing academic progress and successfully completing her degree—an achievement she values deeply.

She believes that loving the place you work and knowing how to work with people is a powerful foundation for professional success. For Lubna, teamwork is not just a skill—it is an essential part of personal growth. She acknowledges that many of the qualities she embodies today were shaped by her experiences at MNU.

Beyond her professional life, Lubna values healthy living. She actively participates in races and charity runs with her family, finding joy and fulfillment in these activities. To her, a healthy lifestyle is key to sustaining high performance at work. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining both physical and mental well-being through consistent habits and a strong personal philosophy.

Currently working in the University Projects Department, Lubna continues to contribute meaningfully to MNU and to national development.

The Maldives National University proudly recognizes Mariyam Lubna for her dedicated service and inspiring journey.

Mariyam Nazima’s journey in education began at the age of just 16, when she tutored children at a neighborhood “Saiboanige”, an experience that opened the first doors to her lifelong passion for teaching. After completing her O’ Levels in 1987, she pursued a Pre-School Advanced Diploma in Sri Lanka, finishing in 1988.

Nazima began her professional teaching career at Ameer Ahmed School, later moving to Ahmadhiyya School. When the Ministry of Education announced opportunities for primary-grade teachers, she joined Kalafaanu School, where she taught for seven years before transitioning into school management.

Driven by her deep love for teaching, Nazima enrolled in the Bachelor of Education (Primary Teaching) program at The Maldives National University in 2016, successfully earning her degree. Her commitment to community service was further demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she decided to run for the Malé City Council. She was elected and continues to serve as a committed Council Member.

Despite the responsibilities of public office, Nazima’s dedication to education never faded. She returned to MNU to pursue her master’s degree, which she has now completed. Alongside her professional duties, she volunteers as an English teacher for adults, continuing to uplift her community through education.

Nazima strongly believes that nation-building begins with shaping future generations. Her enduring dream is to continue teaching, learning, and serving the community with compassion and dedication.

The Maldives National University proudly recognizes Mariyam Nazima for her remarkable contributions to education and her unwavering service to the nation.