The Maldives National University held the Investiture Ceremony for Ibrahim Shabau, officially appointing him as the Dean of the newly established Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the University, underscoring its commitment to advancing agricultural education, strengthening food security, and promoting sustainable development in the Maldives.

Speaking at the investiture ceremony, the Vice Chancellor, Dr Aishath Shehenaz Adam, stated that the establishment of the faculty fulfills the President’s pledge to introduce a dedicated Agriculture Faculty at the University and reflects the national importance of agriculture, environmental sustainability, and resilience. The Vice Chancellor also noted that the faculty’s main hub will be based in Thoddoo to provide students with practical, hands-on agricultural training alongside academic learning. At present, the University offers Advanced Certificate programmes, a Diploma in Agriculture, and a Bachelor of Food Science, and the new Faculty is expected to further strengthen academic and professional pathways in the sector.

In his remarks, the newly appointed Dean shared his vision for developing “Atoll Agriculture,” focused on agricultural practices suited to the Maldives’ unique island environment. He emphasized the importance of climate adaptation, sustainability, and closer collaboration between academia and industry to ensure graduates are equipped with practical experience and employment opportunities.

The Dean also highlighted the potential for future interdisciplinary programmes such as agro-tourism and agro-ecology, while reaffirming his commitment to advancing agricultural education, innovation, and sector development in the Maldives.

The establishment of the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences marks an important step in strengthening higher education, research, and national capacity in agriculture and food security.