Community Health Outreach

Bachelor of Nursing students hosted “Community Health Fiesta” at Male’ Campus which brought together six student groups presenting on diverse health themes. These included chemical messengers in the body, nutrition, waste management under the slogan “Waste isn’t waste until we waste it,” mental well-being through the “Breaking the Silence” campaign, awareness on domestic violence, and physical health promotion.

On November 14, 2024, School of Nursing students hosted the “Wellness Fusion Expo 2024,” where critical health topics were addressed, including lung health (“Breath of Life”), stress and anxiety management for young adults (“Balance Your Life”), adolescent substance abuse prevention (“Clear Mind, Bright Future”), the importance of sleep health (“Awaken to Wellness”), cardiovascular well-being (“Heart Zone”), safe patient transfers in road traffic accidents (“On the Move”), and food hygiene (“A Recipe for Health”). 

School of Nursing students at Gan Campus organized “Sih’hee Mahaasamaa,” which focused on raising awareness of both communicable and non-communicable diseases among the general public.

The School of Nursing collaborated with various organizations and community groups to conduct First Aid Training sessions aimed at enhancing emergency response skills among the public. These sessions equipped participants with essential knowledge and practical techniques to manage common injuries and medical emergencies effectively.

The team from the Faculty of Health Sciences conducted a community engagement initiative titled “Dhulhaheyo Israhvehin” at Israhvehinge Naadhee, promoting health and well-being among senior citizens. The event featured general health checks and interactive sessions on maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. A total of 45 female participants and 4 staff members from Israhvehinge Naadhee took part in the program. This initiative highlights FHS’s ongoing commitment to community health promotion, by fostering active aging and preventive health awareness.

Social Work students and lecturers from the Faculty of Health Sciences joined the Maldives Association of Persons with Disabilities (MAPD) for an evening of engagement with children and adults with disabilities and their families. The gathering provided students with meaningful opportunities to interact with diverse communities, fostering empathy, inclusion, and social awareness. Such experiential learning initiatives enhance students’ understanding of community needs and inclusive practices.

The First Aid team from the Faculty of Health Sciences conducted a Basic First Aid Workshop at the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM). The session provided participants with practical knowledge and hands-on skills to respond effectively to common medical emergencies. This collaborative initiative between MNU and IUM underscores the importance of community-based health education and capacity building.

Faculty of Health Sciences of the Maldives National University, in collaboration with UNICEF, undertook a comprehensive revision of the Primary Health Care program to align it with international standards and best practices. This initiative aims to strengthen the quality and relevance of health education, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of community health services.

To mark World Pharmacists Day 2024, students and lecturers from the Faculty of Health Sciences organized a series of interactive activities and information corners under the global theme “Pharmacists: Meeting Global Health Needs.” The event highlighted the vital role of pharmacists in ensuring safe, effective, and accessible healthcare services. Through educational displays and community engagement, the initiative promoted awareness of the profession’s contribution to public health.

The sixth series of Ilmy Foavahi, led by the Physiotherapy team of the Faculty of Health Sciences focused on the theme “Rehabilitation 2030 Initiative: Where Are We Now?” The session explored the progress of implementing the World Health Organization’s Rehabilitation 2030 agenda, emphasizing the importance of accessible and integrated rehabilitation services within health and ageing frameworks.

The Faculty of Health Sciences joined the global celebration of World Physiotherapy Day, with a series of events organized by physiotherapy students and lecturers under the theme “Low Back Pain – A Global Epidemic.” The activities aimed to raise awareness about the prevention and management of low back pain through education, exercise, and healthy lifestyle practices. 

School of Medicine commenced the community-based learning placement for Group 1 of Batch 5 students at Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital. This posting provides students with valuable hands-on field experience, engaging them in community health assessments, health promotion activities, and patient interactions within real-world healthcare settings. Through this experiential learning component, students gain practical exposure to the functioning of healthcare services at the community level, strengthening their competencies in public health and primary care delivery. 

School of Medicine has commenced the community-based learning placement for Group 2 of Batch 6 students at Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital. This posting offers students valuable hands-on field experience, engaging them in community health assessments, health promotion activities, and patient interactions within real community and hospital settings.

The School of Medicine conducted ToT sessions on Advanced Emergency Care for healthcare professionals across the country.  This program was designed to strengthen the skills and competencies of trainers in effectively managing medical emergencies. Participants received advanced instruction in emergency response protocols, life-saving interventions, and simulation-based training techniques, equipping them with the expertise to cascade these skills to other healthcare providers within their respective institutions.

The School of Medicine organized Ilmee Fovahi, an academic event dedicated to promoting the exchange of scientific knowledge and intellectual engagement among students and faculty. The program featured presentations, discussions, and interactive sessions highlighting recent developments and innovations in medical science. 

Dr. Sheeza Ali, Dean of the School of Medicine, delivered a keynote address at the International Medical and Health Science Congress held on November 5, 2024. Her address focused on advancing medical education and fostering innovation in healthcare, underscoring the importance of collaboration, research, and capacity building in strengthening health systems.

This engagement highlights the School of Medicine’s ongoing commitment to professional development, community health advancement, and the promotion of quality medical education..

The School of Medicine conducted the 12th Lunchtime Talk session on October 15, 2024, featuring Dr. Razana Faiz, Senior Lecturer at the School of Medicine.
Dr. Razana delivered an engaging talk on “The Status of the Health of Migrants in the Maldives”, highlighting key public health concerns and the importance of inclusive healthcare policies for migrant communities.

The School of Medicine conducted the 7th Ilmee Foavahi Seminar 2024 on “Protecting Our Eyesight in Diabetes.” The session focused on diabetic eye health, highlighting prevention and early intervention strategies to reduce vision-related complications. 

MEDICOS, the student body of the School of Medicine, actively volunteered at the Health Camp organized by the Diabetes Society of Maldives. The volunteers contributed to community health awareness and screening activities, supporting efforts to promote early detection and prevention of diabetes-related complications.

MEDICOS volunteers from the School of Medicine conducted a health screening program for the staff of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the National Centre for the Holy Quran. The initiative aimed to encourage preventive healthcare practices and support the overall well-being of employees.

MEDICOS volunteers from the School of Medicine organized a blood donation camp titled “Our Blood, Their Lives” in collaboration with MERCY, Maldivian Blood Services, Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital, and Addu Equatorial Hospital.
The event was aimed at encouraging voluntary blood donation, raise awareness on the importance of blood safety, and support national health needs.

The School of Medicine, School of Nursing, and Faculty of Health Sciences actively participated in the National Skills and Career Expo 2024. Student bodies MEDICOS, HEALERS, and NIARES together with faculty members, engaged with students and visitors to share information on educational pathways and careers in medicine, nursing, and allied health sciences. A health screening programme was also conducted during the expo, promoting preventive healthcare and well-being among participants.

Ali Adyb, an Internationally Certified Addiction Professional and Global Drug Demand Reduction Master Trainer, delivered an insightful session titled “The Science of Drug Use Disorders” for our students. The session delved into the physiological and psychological mechanisms underlying substance use disorders, emphasizing addiction as a complex biopsychosocial condition. It also highlighted evidence-based prevention strategies and treatment modalities, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of effective approaches to addressing substance use. Furthermore, Ali explored diverse career pathways within the field of drug demand reduction, inspiring students to pursue opportunities in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

MEDICOS, together with NIARES and HEALERS wings of MNUSU, organized MNUSU Dhulhaheyo Eid 2024 to commemorate World Health Day 2024. The event featured interactive games to promote physical activity, along with health screening and information sessions to raise awareness on healthy living. It fostered community engagement among students and staff while encouraging proactive approaches to health and well-being. 

MEDICOS volunteers from the School of Medicine participated in a Health Camp organized by the Diabetes Society of Maldives, assisting with health screenings and providing community education on diabetes prevention and management.

First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed delivered an insightful scientific presentation on “Antimicrobial Resistance in the Food Chain” during the Medical Science Seminar held at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Maldives National University (MNU). Her lecture emphasized the critical role of food safety in combating antimicrobial resistance and its profound implications for public health. The session fostered awareness on the interconnectedness of food systems, health, and environmental safety.

Our students participated in the Thalassemia screening session at Jalaludheen School, Haa Dhaal Kulhudhufushi, conducted by the Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital.

A level students from Baa Thulhaadhoo visited the School of Medicine today. Volunteers from MEDICOS as well as our respected faculty members helped make it a very interesting eye opening experience for the visiting students.

Students disseminated the findings of their research work at the Students Scientific Forum.

The School of Medicine conducted a session on the different systems of the human body for 8th grade students from Imaduddin School. The session was facilitated by Assistant Professor Dr. Deepesh, and assisted by volunteers from Batch 6. The students and Teachers showed a lot of enthusiasm and were very grateful for the learning experience. 

MEDICOS volunteering with Mission for Migrant Workers Maldives at the event held by IOM – UN Migration – “Together for Migration”

An awareness session on Breast and Cervical Cancer at Sh.Goidhoo with approximately 55 participants was held this week. Session was facilitated by by  Medical student Ahmed Yazdhan and assisted by Ahmed Zahid

Thank you Sh.Goidhoo Women’s Development Committee  and Goidhoo HC.

90 mins Cancer awareness session with Kahoot Fun games for assessing the 30 participant’s knowledge, conducted at Funadhoo Council. Organized by Sh. Funadhoo women’s development commitee  The session was facilitated by our public health expert, S.C.H.O Ahmed Zahid, and   Medical student Ahmed Yazdhan

Students participated in the “Isravvehinge Haveeru” organized by MRC Kulhudhufushi. Students worked with the Public Health Unit of Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital to prepare stalls with memory games for the elderly.

Students participated in a community health awareness campaign organized by the School of Medicine, the Maldives National University. The campaign aimed to promote public health education, encourage healthy lifestyles, and strengthen community engagement through interactive sessions, screenings, and outreach activities.

The students at the School of Nursing, Maldives National University (MNU), successfully hosted a vibrant and impactful Health Promotion Event at the MNU Malé Campus. The event was centred around dual themes:

• “Wellness Through Knowledge: Your Path to Healthy Living”

This student-led initiative aimed to raise awareness, encourage healthy lifestyle choices, and foster meaningful community engagement in health-related activities. The event aligned with the 2025 International Nurses Day global theme – “Our Nurses. Our Future. – Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies”, which highlights the vital contributions of nurses in advancing health and economic stability.

The event also supported MNU’s national public health campaign, “Fahi Sihhath; Dhulha Heyo Sihhath; Dhulha Heyo Mujuhtha”, emphasising preventive care, community collaboration, and long-term wellness.

The Consortium of Medical Students – Medicos, a wing of the Maldives National University Students’ Union (MNUSU) at the School of Medicine, together with the University’s Kulhudhuffushi Campus Gurz, is organizing the MNUSU 10K Steps Initiative as part of MNU’s ongoing commitment to community well-being.

Aligned with the University’s SDG-inspired outreach efforts—such as the Fahi Sihhath programme, which brings health education and basic screenings directly to communities—the 10K Steps initiative aims to raise public awareness on the importance of daily physical activity, particularly the proven health benefits of walking 10,000 steps a day.

This initiative encourages individuals, families, and communities to adopt simple, sustainable habits that reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases and promote lifelong wellness. By mobilizing medical students and campus volunteers, MNU continues to foster a culture of preventive health, empowerment, and community engagement across the Maldives.

• Event Link

The third series of Illmee Fovahi 2024, organized by the School of Nursing, focused on promoting physical and mental well-being as essential foundations for student success. The session emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy habits—such as regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and effective stress management—to improve academic performance and overall quality of life. Through an engaging and interactive educational talk by experts, Illmee Fovahi 2024 highlighted how a healthy body and mind work together to keep students motivated, focused, and better equipped to thrive in their academic journey

• You Tube Link

A total of 150 undergraduate nursing students conducted community fieldwork in Hdh. Kulhudhuffushi, Gdh. Thinadhoo, L. Gan, and S. Hithadhoo, supporting SDG Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being. Their activities included island and household surveys, home visits, school health programs, and food safety inspections. Students visited key health facilities—Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital, Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital, L. Gan Regional Hospital, and Addu Equatorial Hospital—to understand the delivery of local health services. They also carried out school health screenings and education sessions at Afeefudheen School, Thinadhoo School, Aboobakuru School, Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani School, and Hithadhoo School. In addition, students met with Kulhudhuffushi, Thinadhoo, L. Gan, and Addu City Councils to gather community health information and conducted inspections of public eateries when available. Through these activities, students contributed to disease prevention, early detection, and healthier community environments while strengthening their essential community health nursing skills.

A total of 73 undergraduate nursing students completed community fieldwork at Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital, Gdh. Thinadhoo, and S. Hithadhoo, contributing to SDG Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being. Their activities included island and household surveys, home visits, school health programs, and food safety inspections. Students visited major hospitals such as Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital (KRH), Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital, and Addu Equatorial Hospital to learn about the delivery of primary, secondary, and tertiary care services. They also conducted school health screenings and health education sessions at Jalaaludheen School (Kulhudhuffushi), Thinadhoo School, Aboobakuru School (Gdh. Thinadhoo), and Sharafuddin School (Addu City, Hithadhoo). Additionally, students met with the Kulhudhuffushi City Council, Thinadhoo City Council, and Addu City Council to gather community health data and understand local public health initiatives. When available, they inspected public eateries to assess food safety practices and carried out home visits to families needing support. Through these activities, students contributed to disease prevention, early detection, health promotion, and safer community environments, while further strengthening their practical skills in community health nursing.