MNU Thinadhoo Campus celebrated Dhivehi Day on 28 September 2026 with a series of activities organised under the initiative of the Faculty of Arts, bringing together students and staff to celebrate the richness of the Dhivehi language, culture, and Maldivian heritage.
A total of 42 students and 20 staff members participated in the celebrations. The programme aimed to strengthen the use and appreciation of the Dhivehi language, preserve cultural knowledge and traditions, and encourage patriotism and national pride through meaningful participation and creative expression.
The celebrations featured a Wall Newspaper Writing Competition, providing students with an opportunity to demonstrate their Dhivehi writing skills while exploring cultural themes. A Big/Bold Letter Writing Competition focused on Dhivehi script, clarity, and presentation, while a presentation competition provided participants with an opportunity to demonstrate their communication, creativity, and presentation skills.
The programme also included Luika Vaadha, which highlighted traditional foods prepared using methods that allow them to be preserved for longer periods. The activity helped promote traditional knowledge, food heritage, and cultural practices that have been passed down through generations in Maldivian communities.
Through these activities, students were encouraged to use the Dhivehi language creatively, strengthen communication skills, appreciate traditional knowledge, and develop a deeper connection with Maldivian culture and identity. The celebrations also created opportunities for active learning beyond the classroom through writing, presentation, cultural expression, and participation.
The initiative contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education by promoting inclusive and meaningful learning, literacy, communication skills, cultural awareness, and appreciation of the contribution of culture to sustainable development. It also supports lifelong learning by creating opportunities for students to develop language, presentation, and creative skills through experiential activities.
The celebration further contributes to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting the safeguarding and appreciation of cultural heritage, including the Dhivehi language, traditional practices, and local knowledge. By encouraging young people to engage with these elements of Maldivian heritage, the programme supports their continued preservation for future generations.
The focus on traditional food preparation and preservation also connects with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by highlighting local knowledge, traditional food practices, resourcefulness, and approaches to reducing food waste through preservation.
Collaboration between the Faculty of Arts and MNU Thinadhoo Campus further supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating how academic faculties and campuses can work together to provide meaningful educational and cultural experiences for students.
Through Dhivehi Day celebrations, MNU Thinadhoo Campus continues to support the preservation of language and cultural heritage while creating opportunities for students to strengthen their skills, creativity, cultural awareness, and national identity.
MNU Thinadhoo Campus extends sincere appreciation to the Faculty of Arts, participating students, staff, organisers, and everyone who contributed to making the Dhivehi Day celebrations meaningful and successful.