Four staff members from MNU Library participated in the 2025 Professional Development Workshop for Information and Library Staff (PDWILS) held in Malaysia from 25th July to 1st August 2025. The programme was organised by the Maldives Library Association in collaboration with the Faculty of Arts, The Maldives National University.

Ms. Haleemath Zuhudha and Ms. Hawwa Sifna participated with sponsorship from MNU Library, while Senior Management Team members Ms. Rishfa Ibrahim and Ms. Fathmath Nashfa, members of the Library’s Senior Management Team, participated as self-financed participants.

During the programme, participants engaged with 13 leading information providers and knowledge curators across Kuala Lumpur and Selangor and participated in three hands-on professional development workshops. Key areas included the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in libraries, measuring library impact, 21st-century professional skills, and implementation planning.

The programme also provided exposure to emerging trends in library and information services, digital technologies, modern library management, collection development, user engagement and the evolving role of libraries in knowledge dissemination. Networking with Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals further provided opportunities for professional knowledge exchange and collaboration.

Participation in PDWILS supports MNU Library’s commitment to continuous professional development, innovation and the adoption of contemporary library practices, enabling staff to apply new knowledge and approaches to strengthen library services at MNU.