The Maldives National University (MNU) has taken steps to strengthen campus hygiene, workplace safety, and the quality of housekeeping services through a Short Intensive Course (SIC) on Cleaning Procedures, aimed at enhancing the practical skills and professional competencies of university support staff.
The training highlighted the essential role of effective cleaning and maintenance in creating safe, healthy, and welcoming learning and working environments. By strengthening housekeeping practices, the programme sought to support consistent cleanliness standards across shared university facilities while promoting staff well-being and a positive campus experience.
Combining theoretical instruction, film-based learning, and hands-on activities, the course introduced participants to fundamental housekeeping principles, the appropriate use of cleaning equipment and agents, and essential personal and workplace hygiene practices. The structured approach aimed to help staff understand both the practical techniques and the importance of maintaining hygienic university spaces.
A major component of the programme focused on practical skill development, with participants engaging in cleaning activities such as dusting, sweeping, mopping, bathroom sanitation, glass cleaning, and vacuuming. These exercises provided opportunities to apply the techniques introduced during the training and build confidence in carrying out routine housekeeping responsibilities.
The course also reinforced the importance of professional capacity development among support staff, recognising their contribution to maintaining university facilities and supporting the institution’s daily operations. Strengthening these competencies can improve service consistency, encourage responsible cleaning practices, and contribute to healthier shared environments for students, academic staff, and employees.
Beyond technical training, the initiative underscored the connection between workplace hygiene, preventive health practices, and institutional well-being. Maintaining clean and properly managed facilities plays an important role in reducing hygiene-related risks and creating conditions that support effective teaching, learning, and work.
The programme reflects MNU’s emphasis on good health and well-being, clean and safe environments, sanitation and hygiene, decent work, professional skills development, and sustainable institutional practices. By investing in the capabilities of its support staff, the university aims to strengthen housekeeping service quality and promote a healthier, safer, and more inclusive campus environment.
