The Maldives National University (MNU) participated in the Asia-Pacific Quality Network (APQN) Annual Academic Conference and Annual General Meeting 2026, held from 28 October to 1 November 2026 at Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, India. The conference brought together higher education institutions and quality assurance professionals from across the region to exchange perspectives, deliberate on emerging developments, and explore the evolving landscape and future directions of quality assurance in higher education.

Representing MNU, Dr Aminath Shiyama, Quality Assurance Controller, presented a paper titled “Strengthening Higher Education Quality Assurance Processes in Small Island Developing States through Artificial Intelligence: The Maldives National University Experience.”

MNU’s participation provided an opportunity to share its institutional experience and contribute to regional discussions on the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in quality assurance and enhancement. The engagement was particularly significant in bringing the perspectives of higher education institutions in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) into wider conversations about the opportunities and challenges of adopting AI in higher education. As institutions explore the potential of these technologies, it is important to consider not only their benefits for quality enhancement and institutional effectiveness, but also the need for responsible use, appropriate human oversight, and awareness of their resource and environmental implications. Participation in APQN also enabled MNU to learn from international practices, strengthen professional networks and explore opportunities for future collaboration.

MNU’s participation in QA conferences such as APQN 2026 reflects its continued commitment to strengthening its quality assurance culture, engaging with international developments and contributing to the advancement of higher education quality across the Asia-Pacific region. Through active engagement in regional and international networks, MNU seeks to ensure that its experiences inform global and regional dialogue while drawing on shared knowledge to support its own institutional development.

This engagement also aligns with MNU’s contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), through its commitment to quality and continuous improvement; SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), through the responsible exploration of AI and digital innovation; SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), through evidence-informed and accountable institutional practices; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), through international collaboration and knowledge exchange. Together, these priorities reflect MNU’s commitment to ensuring its quality assurance mechanisms and innovation in higher education supports institutional progress and sustainable development.