The Maldives National University (MNU) plays a vital role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) nationally and regionally through research, policy engagement, and collaborative initiatives that connect academia, government, and communities. Guided by its mission to drive national progress through knowledge and innovation, MNU’s research framework is strategically aligned with the SDGs, addressing key developmental and environmental challenges in the Maldives and the region.

MNU promotes interdisciplinary research in areas such as health and well-being, quality education, sustainable tourism, clean energy, good governance, and climate resilience. Its contributions to the Maldives National Development Plan (NDP) 2025–2045 highlight its influence in shaping long-term strategies through evidence-based policy insights. The university collaborates closely with government ministries, including those for Environment, Health, and Higher Education, as well as NGOs and community organizations, to design and implement sustainable, inclusive solutions.

Internationally, MNU engages in major collaborative projects such as the Nitrogen Hub Project and the PROMISE Project, which focus on environmental protection, waste management, and sustainable agriculture. These partnerships enhance regional capacity building and innovation in addressing global sustainability challenges. MNU also leads various climate-related initiatives on adaptation, mitigation, marine ecosystem management, and renewable energy. In addition, its extensive network of MoUs with national, regional, and global institutions supports cooperation in education, health, digital transformation, and sustainable tourism—reinforcing MNU’s role as a key contributor to the global SDG agenda.