The Maldives National University (MNU) proudly announces that its Vice Chancellor, Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam, participated in Plenary 1: “Trust and Distrust in an Age of Turmoil” at the International Association of Universities (IAU) 2025 International Conference, held at the University of Rwanda, Kigali.

The IAU 2025 International Conference convened higher education leaders, academics, and policymakers from across the globe to examine the theme, “Universities and Trust: Building Confidence in Knowledge, Collaboration, and Society.” The conference served as a dynamic platform for global dialogue on how universities can strengthen trust in education and research during times of transformation and uncertainty.

Participating as a representative as a higher education leader and expert from a small island nation, Dr. Shehenaz shared valuable insights on fostering institutional trust and resilience in the context of global challenges. She emphasized the pivotal role that small island universities play in preserving national identity, ensuring inclusive access to education, and promoting sustainable development, even while navigating limited resources and heightened vulnerability to external pressures.

MNU’s active participation in such international platforms reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to global academic collaboration and its role in advancing knowledge, innovation, and sustainability within and beyond the Maldives.