The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) at The Maldives National University (MNU) marked Physiotherapy Week 2025 from 4 to 11 September through a series of student-led activities designed to promote healthy ageing, strengthen professional connections and foster a sense of community within the physiotherapy profession.
Organised and managed by students of the Bachelor of Physiotherapy under the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, the week brought together approximately 70 students, three MNU staff members and 20 physiotherapists from across the Maldives. The programme provided opportunities for students to apply their organisational and professional skills while engaging with practising physiotherapists and members of the wider University community.
A key feature of the week was the Physio Night, which brought physiotherapists from across the country together to celebrate the profession and network with one another. The event created an opportunity for students to connect with professionals working in the field and gain exposure to the broader physiotherapy community.
Students also organised a movie night and interactive stalls that assessed a range of physical fitness parameters. These activities provided opportunities for participants to engage with health and fitness information in an accessible setting, while highlighting the role of physiotherapy and physical activity in supporting healthy ageing.
The collaborative nature of the activities brought students and staff together and strengthened engagement across the physiotherapy community. For students, leading the programme provided practical experience in planning, coordination, communication and professional engagement alongside their academic learning.
The activities also supported broader awareness of health and wellbeing, while creating opportunities for professional networking and knowledge exchange. Through its combination of student-led learning, professional engagement and health promotion, Physiotherapy Week contributed to the development of a connected physiotherapy community and complemented FHS’s role in educating future health professionals.
The initiative reflects the Faculty’s commitment to learning beyond the classroom and to meaningful engagement between students, academic staff and the health profession. It also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through its focus on health promotion, experiential student learning and collaboration within the profession.
