The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS), The Maldives National University (MNU), and the Maldives Physiotherapy Association (MPA) met on 23 November to explore opportunities for collaboration aimed at strengthening physiotherapy education, student development, and professional engagement.

The meeting brought together three representatives from MPA with Dr. Aishath Shanoora, Dean of FHS, and Uzma Sayyad, Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (DRS). Discussions focused on areas where closer engagement between the University and the professional association could create additional learning and development opportunities for physiotherapy students and support the profession more broadly.

A key area discussed was the possibility of MNU physiotherapy students participating in mentorship programmes facilitated by MPA. Such opportunities could complement students’ academic and clinical education by connecting them with practising physiotherapists and providing additional exposure to professional practice and career development.

The meeting also included discussions on the process for pursuing World Physiotherapy accreditation. This provided an opportunity to consider the requirements and processes involved as FHS continues to strengthen the quality and development of its physiotherapy education.

FHS and MPA also identified potential areas for future collaboration, including professional development sessions, joint events, and activities to increase awareness of physiotherapy education and the profession. These proposed initiatives provide a basis for continued engagement between academic and professional stakeholders.

Collaboration with professional associations plays an important role in connecting university education with developments in professional practice. Strengthening these links can support students’ transition into the profession while creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and continuing professional development.

The engagement contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being through its focus on strengthening physiotherapy education and professional capacity, SDG 4: Quality Education through opportunities for mentorship and educational development, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through collaboration between FHS and the national professional association.

The meeting provides a foundation for FHS and MPA to further develop these areas of collaboration and identify opportunities that benefit students, practitioners, and the development of physiotherapy in the Maldives.