The Maldives National University (MNU) shared its experience of international collaboration at the QAA Global Insights Conference 2026 on 22 October 2026, during a session on Global Perspectives on International Collaboration. The session attracted approximately 70 participants from the international higher education community.

Representing MNU, Dr Aminath Shiyama highlighted the University’s growing international engagement, commitment to academic quality, and ambition to develop meaningful partnerships that strengthen student and staff mobility, collaborative research, curriculum development and knowledge exchange.

The presentation showcased MNU’s distinctive role as a national university in a Small Island Developing State, highlighting opportunities for international collaboration in marine science, climate change, island resilience, and sustainable tourism. The discussion emphasised the importance of moving beyond formal partnership agreements towards purposeful, mutually beneficial collaborations that enhance teaching and learning, strengthen research capacity and contribute to sustainable development.

MNU’s internationalisation agenda also supports its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Through international partnerships, sustainability-focused research, knowledge exchange and institutional collaboration, MNU continues to strengthen its contribution to these global goals and to sustainable development in the Maldives and beyond.

Participation in the conference provided an opportunity to share MNU’s experience with international peers, exchange perspectives on quality and partnership development, and explore opportunities for deeper engagement with UK and other international higher education institutions.

Read more at QAA’s website too