The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) of The Maldives National University (MNU) met with the Ministry of Health and the Health Protection Agency on 8 July 2024 to discuss the Department of Public Health’s courses and opportunities to widen access for health workers across the atolls.

The Health Protection Agency highlighted the need for Diploma and Bachelor-level pathways delivered through blended formats. The discussion informed plans for curriculum revision and future submission for Maldives Qualifications Authority approval for multimodal delivery. These steps could make further study more accessible to staff who work outside the capital; approval and implementation were still prospective at the time of the meeting.

For health workers based in the atolls, flexible study options could reduce the practical barriers to continuing education while helping develop the national public health workforce.

The discussion supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) through flexible learning, SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by considering access for atoll-based workers, and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through workforce development. Engagement with health authorities also reflects SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).