SCHOOL-BASED LEARNING SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS

• Study Skills, Examination Preparation and Independent Learning

In 2025, MNU extended academic support to school communities across several atolls through a series of study skills, examination preparation and independent learning workshops. Conducted at schools in G.Dh. Thinadhoo, K. Guraidhoo, K. Gulhi, AA. Ukulhas, Th. Guraidhoo, Th. Veymandoo, L.Kalaidhoo, K. Villingilli (Muhyiddin School), GDh Madaveli, GDh Nadella, and other island communities, these initiatives equipped students with practical strategies for effective studying, time management, revision, examination preparation and independent learning. The sessions also introduced digital learning approaches, including the use of AI-supported tools to enhance study practices. By bringing targeted learning support directly to schools beyond the University campus, MNU helped broaden access to educational guidance, strengthen students’ capacity to manage their own learning and support their academic progression. These outreach activities demonstrate the University’s commitment to promoting inclusive educational opportunities and fostering lifelong learning in local communities, contributing to SDG 4.

• Career Guidance and Academic Progression

MNU extended career guidance and educational progression support to school students across several atolls through outreach sessions conducted at GDh. Nadella School, GDh. Madaveli School,  Th. Guraidhoo School,  B. Atoll Education Centre, B. Dharavandhoo School, B. Thulhaadhoo School,  L. Ihadhhoo School, Th. Veymandoo School, HDh. Nolhivaranfaru School, Afeefudheen School, Jalaaludheen School, Sh. Bilehfahi School, Iskandar School, and Madhrasathul Ifthithaah. These initiatives helped students explore career options, identify educational pathways and understand opportunities for higher education, scholarships and further skills development. By bringing educational and career guidance directly to school communities, including A’Level students preparing for their next stage of education, MNU helped raise awareness of available learning opportunities and supported informed decision-making about future study and employment. These activities demonstrate the University’s commitment to widening access to educational information, supporting transitions to further education and promoting lifelong learning in communities beyond its campuses.

• Subject Specific Educational Outreach

Maldives National University (MNU) expanded subject-specific educational outreach to school communities through Qur’anic learning and Tajweed sessions conducted at schools in B. Dhonfanu, K. Huraa, Hulhumale (Huravee School), K. Dhiffushi, K. Gaafaru and ADh. Mahibadhoo. These sessions provided students with opportunities to strengthen their knowledge of Qur’anic recitation, pronunciation and Tajweed beyond the University campus.

In July 2025, MNU staff conducted coding and robotics workshops for grade 8 students at six schools implementing the Ministry of Education’s TechPath Project: M. Atoll School, K. Dhiffushi School, Ga. Konday School, V. Keyodhoo School, Th. Vilufushi School, and L. Ihadhdhoo School. The workshops introduced students to practical STEM learning through coding, robotics, and technology. Building on these initial workshops, MNU staff mentored students in developing their own coding projects, enabling them to apply their learning, strengthen problem-solving skills, and explore technological solutions to real-world challenges. The students presented and showcased their projects at the EduTech Symposium, organised by MNU on 17–18 September 2025. Projects included Generating Electricity from Sandals, Flood Detector System, Tidal Surge and Flooding Detection System, Coral Reef Gardening Project Using Coding, Temperature Detector for Fish Containers, and Smart Light Project for Road Safety. More than 50 students and 12 school teachers benefited from the mentorship programme, which supported the development of practical digital skills, creativity, and innovation among participants.

The Centre for Maritime Studies (CMS) at MNU welcomed 18 marine science students and six staff members from Imaduddin School for an educational visit focused on maritime operations and navigation aids. Through demonstrations, guided discussions and interactive learning sessions facilitated by CMS academic and training staff, students gained practical insights into the role of navigational aids in supporting safe and efficient marine transport. The visit connected classroom learning with real-world maritime applications, strengthening students’ foundational understanding of marine science and introducing them to potential careers in the maritime sector. This outreach initiative reflects MNU’s commitment to extending educational opportunities beyond campus, promoting maritime literacy among young people and encouraging interest in further learning and careers in the blue economy.

Together, these initiatives demonstrate MNU’s commitment to extending educational opportunities beyond its campuses and reaching school communities across the islands. By combining hands-on workshops with sustained mentorship and opportunities to showcase student projects, MNU supported experiential learning, digital literacy, and the application of STEM knowledge to local challenges. These activities contributed to SDG 4: Quality Education by expanding access to practical learning experiences and supporting skills development beyond the formal university setting.

• Student Leadership and Personal Development Programme

MNU Kulhudhuffushi Campus contributed to the Young Leaders Ramadan Extravaganza organised by Jalaaluddin School. MNU staff facilitated sessions on creative thinking, communication and relationship-building, and event planning for school student leaders. The sessions provided practical opportunities for students to develop problem-solving, teamwork, interpersonal and organisational skills, helping prepare them to contribute positively to their schools and communities. This activity represents educational outreach through the sharing of knowledge and practical leadership skills with young people outside the university community.

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT FOR TEACHERS

Throughout 2025, the Maldives National University (MNU) conducted a range of professional development (PD) activities to strengthen teachers’ professional knowledge, enhance teaching practices, and build their capacity to support diverse student learning needs. Delivered in collaboration with schools across the Maldives, these initiatives addressed inclusive education, effective teaching strategies, educational technology, classroom management, student well-being, and school safety.

Key professional development activities included: 

• Inclusive teaching and catering for diverse learning needs: A professional development session on inclusive teaching was conducted for teachers at Aminiya School on 26 January. Further training on creating inclusive classrooms was delivered for 30 teachers from GDh. Atoll School and Dhall Atoll Education Center on 31 May.

• Effective teaching strategies and higher-order thinking: On 27 April, MNU delivered a session on effective questioning, leadership, and teamwork for 80 teachers at H.Dh. Atoll Education Centre. This was followed by a session on higher-order thinking skills for teachers at H.Dh. Nolhivaram School on 17 May. A session of teaching critical thinking competency was conducted for teachers of Naivaadhoo School on 13 September. 

• Mathematics teaching and the integration of artificial intelligence: MNU conducted a professional development session on mathematics teaching and artificial intelligence for 30 teachers from Hafiz Ahmed School and Fuvahmulah School. In addition, 34 teachers from H.Dh. Makunudhoo School participated in a session on using AI in teaching and learning on 3 May.

• Technology-enhanced and innovative teaching: Through the FahiMNU initiative, MNU delivered professional development at Sh. Maaungoodhoo School on 26 May and extended teacher training to five schools in Huvadhu Atoll in June. Topics included Universal Design for Learning, active learning using web-based tools, the use of ChatGPT and Canva in education, and process-based multimodal assessment in the age of AI. MNU also conducted a hands-on Robogogy Workshop on Robotics-Based Learning in Thinadhoo on 9 October. The workshop brought together teachers from local schools to explore the use of robotics and educational technology to support STEM learning, creativity, classroom engagement, and practical problem-solving. A workshop on integrating Robotics into education was also held for teachers at L. Ihadhoo School on 26 July and K. Dhiffushi School 16 August. 

• Classroom management, teamwork, and student well-being: MNU provided professional development for 19 teachers from HDh. Hirimaradhoo School on 30 August, covering classroom management, team building, and supporting students’ mental health. A further session on classroom management and supporting student well-being was conducted at the same school on 13 September. MNU also delivered training on classroom management and team building for teachers at Sh. Goidhoo School.

• Strengthening teachers’ professional knowledge and classroom practice: On 6 September, MNU provided professional development and academic tutoring support for 30 teachers from Mohamed Jamaaluddin School, focusing on strengthening professional knowledge, teaching skills, and classroom practices.

• First aid and school safety: MNU delivered first-aid training for teachers at GA. Maamendhoo School and GDh. Atoll Education Centre. These sessions provided opportunities for teachers to develop practical knowledge and skills relevant to responding to emergencies and supporting safer school environments.

• Strengthening teaching competencies and improving classroom practices:The Maldives National University (MNU), through its Our Earth, Our Futures (OEOF) research project, supports SDG 4: Quality Education by extending professional learning opportunities to school teachers. A professional development workshop was conducted for 32 teachers at Nolhivaranfaru School, upon the school’s request. Facilitated by Dr Claire Lee of Oxford Brookes University, Dr Aminath Shiyama and Dr Fathimath Shafeeqa, the workshop focused on strengthening teaching competencies and improving classroom practices.

• Student-centred learning, inclusive classroom practices, critical thinking, creativity and collaborative learning: As part of its commitment to SDG 4: Quality Education, the Maldives National University (MNU) extended its Our Earth, Our Futures (OEOF) research initiatives to 84 teachers from Hanimaadhoo School and Nolhivaranfaru School through professional development workshops conducted on 25 and 26 April 2025. Facilitated by Dr Aminath Shiyama, Dr Fathimath Shafeeqa and Dr Fathimath Nasiha Abdul Muhaimin, the workshops translated education research findings into practical teaching approaches. Teachers explored student-centred learning, inclusive classroom practices, critical thinking, creativity and collaborative learning. Particular emphasis was placed on integrating sustainability and global citizenship into primary education.

Collectively, these initiatives demonstrate MNU’s commitment to continuous teacher professional development and the advancement of inclusive, effective and innovative teaching practices. Through its research and community engagement activities, MNU extends its reach beyond the university campus by working directly with schools and education communities across the Maldives. While facilitating research and collecting valuable data to inform educational understanding and practice, the University also translates research findings into practical capacity-building initiatives, including professional development workshops for teachers. This integrated approach enables MNU to strengthen teachers’ professional competencies, support their ability to respond to diverse student needs, promote evidence-informed teaching practices and foster sustainable partnerships with schools and wider education communities.

 

HEALTH, WELLBEING AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT 

• First Aid Training and Emergency Preparedness

Through its School of Nursing and Thinadhoo Campus, MNU delivered first-aid training to strengthen emergency preparedness and safety in schools and workplaces. On 1 February, a six-hour training session facilitated by Aishath Sharuwath Ilyas, a lecturer from the School of Nursing, equipped 33 teachers at GA. Maamendhoo School with practical first-aid knowledge and skills. On 10 June, MNU conducted a six-hour Medical First Aid session for 6 participants in Kaadedhdhoo Airport’s Advanced Firefighter Course, focusing on responding to injuries, accidents and medical emergencies. On 23 August a Basic First Aid Training was conducted for school health officers, sports supervisors and leading teachers in collaboration with the Maldivian Nurses Association and Ministry of Education. The session strengthened the ability of school health officers, sports supervisors and leading teachers to provide prompt first aid and contributed to safer school environments.  Further trainings were provided to 28 Kaadedhdhoo Airport staff on 11 October, 45 teachers at GDh Atoll Education Centre on 18 October,  20 staff at GDh Family and Children Service Centre, and 20 staff at M7 on 28 June.

Through demonstrations and practical guidance, these activities helped participants build confidence in providing immediate assistance, responding appropriately to emergencies and promoting safer school and workplace environments. The trainings represent educational outreach because MNU shared practical, life-saving knowledge with external groups beyond the university community, supporting lifelong learning, community safety and public well-being.

• Health Promotion and Health Screening Activities

MNU also undertook community-based health promotion and screening activities in 2025, using practical education and public engagement to encourage preventive healthcare and healthier lifestyles. On 31 May, Bachelor of Nursing students at MNU Thinadhoo Campus organised a public health promotion event for the general public and families, focusing on stroke awareness, prevention, early warning signs and healthy living. The event included stroke risk assessments and basic health screenings for blood sugar, blood pressure, body fat and body mass index (BMI), alongside child-friendly activities. On 1 June, nursing students conducted a community health field visit to Jalaaluddin School, where Grade 5 and 6 students received physical health assessments, including measurements of height, weight and vital signs, supporting the identification of potential health concerns and promoting children’s well-being. A further community health event was held on 13 November under the theme “Prevention Is Better Than Cure,” sharing information on disease prevention, healthy lifestyles, early identification of health risks and appropriate help-seeking.

Additionally, a students-led community health event, themed “Wellness Through Knowledge-Your Path to Healthy Living,” was conducted by School of Nursing students in connection with International Nurses’ Day. Students provided the public with practical information on healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, early recognition of health concerns, and appropriate use of health services. Interactive education supported participants to make informed choices while allowing students to apply nursing knowledge and develop communication, leadership, and teamwork skills. The programme promoted health and well-being, quality education, equitable access to health information, sustainable communities, and partnership with the public.

The MNU School of Medicine participated in a Community Health Awareness Campaign in HDh Atoll aiming to promote public health education and encouraging healthy lifestyle practices. The campaign engaged community members through interactive health education sessions, basic health screenings, and outreach activities focused on disease prevention, health promotion, and personal well-being. 

On 3 October 2025, MNU Kulhudhuffushi Campus nursing students conducted health screenings for older adults during the Senior Citizens’ Day celebrations in HDh. Nolhivaranfaru, organised by the Family and Children’s Service Centre in collaboration with the Maldivian Red Crescent. The initiative promoted preventive healthcare and raised awareness of health and well-being among senior citizens.

On 25 April 2025, the Maldives National University (MNU), in collaboration with UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO), organised the Fahi Sihhath Health Fair 2025 at Artificial Beach, Malé, under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures” in recognition of World Health Day. Reaching approximately 1,500 people, the fair featured 15 thematic stalls offering health screenings, demonstrations, interactive activities and public awareness sessions on maternal and newborn health, nutrition, immunisation, diabetes and mental health. The initiative extended educational opportunities beyond campus by providing accessible, community-based health education, promoting preventive health practices and strengthening collaboration among academic institutions, health agencies and community partners.

On 8 May 2025, the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) at The Maldives National University participated in the health fair at the MyHulhumalé Festival, organised by the Housing Development Corporation. Through a public awareness stall, FHS staff shared accessible information on healthy lifestyles and the prevention of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). By bringing preventive health education into a community festival, the initiative provided an opportunity for members of the public to learn about healthier lifestyle choices in an accessible setting.

These initiatives delivered health information and preventive-health learning to community members and school children outside the university setting, while also enabling MNU nursing students to apply their knowledge in real-world community contexts. They contributed to health literacy, awareness of early intervention and stronger connections between university education and community well-being.

• Promoting Health and Well-Being of Children in Educational Institutions

The School of Medicine conducted a workshop for school teachers on identifying child abuse in educational institutions as part of the #MAMELECON2025 initiative. The workshop aimed to raise teachers’ awareness of the potential signs of child abuse and neglect and strengthen their capacity to identify children who may be at risk. The session emphasised teachers’ roles in the early identification of abuse, appropriate reporting, and referral of children requiring support. By strengthening teachers’ understanding of child protection and safeguarding responsibilities, the workshop contributed to promoting children’s safety and well-being and fostering safer, more supportive, and protective learning environments. This initiative reflects MNU’s commitment to community education and capacity building, by supporting the creation of safe and inclusive educational environments in which children can learn and thrive.

On 1 December 2025, the MNU School of Nursing conducted a health and wellness education session for more than 100 students in Grades 5–7 at Ghiyasudheen International School. The session aimed to promote healthy behaviours and informed lifestyle choices among school-aged children. Through this initiative, students gained greater awareness of healthy lifestyle practices and the importance of making positive health-related choices from an early age. The activity contributed to community-based health education and supported  by extending learning opportunities beyond the classroom and promoting knowledge and skills essential for lifelong well-being.

On 25–26 May 2025, MNU School of Nursing Lecturer, Ms Thasneem Ahmed conducted an interactive health education event for 605 children from four preschools. Through colourful visuals, games, and hands-on activities, children explored major body organs and their functions while developing health awareness and curiosity about the human body. The initiative promoted early learning, healthy habits, and inclusive educational opportunities

On 8 September 2025, MNU lecturers and second-semester Nursing students conducted a handwashing awareness session for 190 children at Falah Preschool. Through child-friendly demonstrations and hands-on practice, the programme promoted proper hand hygiene and infection prevention.

On 17 November 2025, MNU Bachelor of Nursing students conducted “Thriving Teens: Health Promotion for the Mind and Body” for Grade 8 and 9 students at H.Dh. Atoll Education Centre. Through educational sessions and interactive activities, students learned about physical health, mental well-being, self-care, and healthy lifestyle choices. The initiative extended MNU’s health education beyond campus while enabling nursing students to apply their knowledge in a school setting.

• Promoting the Well-Being and Social Inclusion of Older Adults

On 5 May 2025, MNU Nursing lecturers and students visited Israhvehinge Naadhee, a community gathering place for older adults, to engage with participants and support their social and emotional well-being. The visit provided opportunities for intergenerational interaction, companionship, and social connection, recognising the importance of community participation in enhancing older adults’ quality of life. This initiative reflects MNU’s commitment to promoting the well-being and social inclusion of older adults through community engagement.

On 23 May 2025, Semester 8 Bachelor of Nursing students from MNU organised a community health promotion event titled “Dhulhaheyo Nafsu: Dhoshee Umuraai Sihhathu” (Healthy Mind: Old Age and Health) in Kulhudhuffushi City. The programme engaged 25 older community members through health education and interactive activities focused on healthy ageing, disease prevention, healthy lifestyle practices, and overall well-being. Through this initiative, MNU extended health education beyond the university, providing older adults with opportunities to learn about maintaining their health and quality of life.

• Educational Outreach to Promote Healthy Ageing

On 28 September 2025, MNU’s School of Medicine contributed to the Isravvehinge Haveeru community programme, organised by the Maldives Red Crescent Kulhudhuffushi Unit in collaboration with the Public Health Unit of Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital. Batch 6 medical students designed and facilitated interactive stalls featuring memory games and cognitive activities for older adults, providing opportunities for mental stimulation, social interaction, and learning about healthy ageing.

On 9 September 2025, students from the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) at The Maldives National University engaged approximately 50 community members in a mass exercise session at Isravehenge Nadhee Malé, promoting awareness of physical activity and preventive rehabilitation as important elements of healthy ageing. Led by one FHS staff member and seven MNU students, the activity combined an educational discussion on the benefits of regular physical movement with a guided exercise session and cool-down activities. Participants were also introduced to preventive rehabilitation and its role in maintaining health and well-being throughout the ageing process. The initiative extended health sciences education beyond the classroom, providing community members with practical learning opportunities while enabling students to apply their academic knowledge in a community setting and strengthen their health communication skills.

 

Through this initiative, MNU extended its educational activities beyond campus by applying medical knowledge in a community setting and promoting awareness of older adults’ cognitive and social well-being. The participation also enabled medical students to develop practical skills in health promotion and community-based care while engaging directly with older adults.

• Promoting Thalassemia Awareness and Preventive Health Education

On 19 October 2025, MNU School of Medicine students participated in a thalassemia screening session at Jalaludheen School in Kulhudhuffushi, in collaboration with Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital. Through their involvement in this community-based initiative, the students supported healthcare professionals in promoting awareness of thalassemia, the importance of screening, and the role of early detection in preventing and managing the condition. By extending medical education beyond campus, MNU contributed to community health awareness while providing students with practical experience in public health outreach, patient interaction, and preventive healthcare. The activity supported health education in a school setting and strengthened collaboration between MNU and local healthcare providers

• Promoting HIV/AIDS Awareness and Community Education

On 22 December 2025, MNU Thinadhoo Campus participated in a World AIDS Day family event organised by Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital in collaboration with health and community organisations. The event aimed to promote HIV/AIDS awareness, unity, and collective responsibility in addressing HIV-related challenges. Through its participation, MNU supported community engagement and efforts to strengthen public awareness of HIV/AIDS, encouraging informed understanding, compassion, and a supportive community environment. This initiative reflects MNU’s commitment to extending health education beyond the university and working with community partners to promote inclusive learning and well-being.

• Capacity Building for Health Professionals

MNU’s School of Nursing conducted a research capacity-building session for staff of Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital (ASMH). The session covered research design, ethical considerations, evidence-based practice and academic collaboration. By providing learning opportunities in research and evidence-informed practice, the activity supported the continuing professional development of healthcare personnel.

A four-hour Mentoring Workshop was conducted for nurses of Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital to strengthen clinical mentorship and support continuous professional development. The workshop focused on theoretical mentorship models, improved evaluation techniques, and effective methods for providing constructive feedback in clinical settings. Participants actively engaged in discussions and reflected on practical strategies to improve mentorship practices. The activity promoted professional learning, workplace capacity building, leadership in clinical practice, and quality improvement in healthcare settings. By strengthening the mentoring skills of nurses, the workshop supported better guidance for junior staff and nursing students, helping to create a stronger clinical learning environment. It also contributed to improved patient care through enhanced supervision, feedback, and professional standards. The collaboration between MNU and ASMH reflected the importance of partnerships between education and healthcare institutions in developing competent, confident, and reflective health professionals.

 

PROFESSIONAL AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BEYOND CAMPUS

Several capacity-building activities for professionals were conducted by MNU in 2025 to support  learning across workplaces and sectors.

• Workplace Communication and Customer Service

MNU Business School conducted a customer service training programme for 16 staff members of the Waste Management Corporation Limited (WAMCO). Facilitated by Abdulla Soadig, the programme focused on telephone etiquette, professional communication and advanced customer service techniques. It aimed to strengthen staff members’ ability to communicate effectively, interact respectfully with customers and provide responsive, customer-centred services.

• Technical Training for Librarians

MNU’s Faculty of Arts, in collaboration with the Maldives Library Association and Reading Room, delivered training on library technical services for 10 librarians representing six islands in Baa Atoll. Organised at the request of Baa Atoll Education Centre, the training covered acquisitions, cataloguing, classification and integrated library systems. The programme supported the development of specialised technical skills and helped strengthen library services in island communities.

• Building Data Literacy among Local Councils

On 16 July 2025, MNU Business School, in collaboration with the Maldives Bureau of Statistics, conducted a webinar for local councils to highlight the importance of data in strengthening local governance and community development. The session promoted data literacy and highlighted how reliable data can support informed decision-making and effective planning. Through this initiative, MNU extended educational learning opportunities to local council representatives beyond the university, sharing knowledge relevant to their professional responsibilities and community needs. 

• Raising Intellectual Property Awareness in the Creative Industries

MNU Business School, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, conducted an intellectual property awareness session for the creative industries. The initiative extended learning beyond the university by providing an opportunity for participants to develop their understanding of intellectual property and its importance in recognising and protecting creative work. Through this collaboration, MNU contributed to knowledge-sharing and capacity-building within the creative sector, supporting lifelong learning and helping participants better understand intellectual property in their professional and creative activities.

• Professional Development for Maldives Customs Service Staff

On 15 May 2025, MNU Kulhudhuffushi Campus conducted a professional development session titled “Reviving Motivation and Fostering Team Synergy” for 22 staff members of the North Regional Maldives Customs Service. Facilitated by the Campus Manager, the session used interactive discussions and practical activities to explore workplace motivation, effective communication, teamwork, trust, and collaboration. Participants gained practical strategies to strengthen workplace relationships, maintain motivation, and contribute to a positive and productive working environment. Through this initiative, MNU extended professional learning opportunities beyond campus, supporting staff development and lifelong learning in the public sector.

• Promoting Financial Literacy and Lifelong Learning

On 23 June 2025, MNU Hithadhoo Campus, through Senior Lecturer Aishath Rasheed, conducted a financial literacy session for more than 30 officers from S. Gan Police Station. The session provided practical guidance on personal finance and informed financial decision-making, supporting participants in developing skills relevant to their personal and professional lives. The positive response, including requests for similar training for other officers, highlighted the value of accessible lifelong learning opportunities.

• Janā’iz Short Course in F. Magoodhoo

On 1 December 2025, the Faculty of Shari’ah and Law at the Maldives National University (MNU), in collaboration with F. Magoodhoo Council, conducted a three-day Janā’iz Short Course through its Department of Islamic Studies. Led by lecturers Sheikh Azmath Jameel and Sheikh Mohamed Irshad, the programme provided community members with practical knowledge and skills in Islamic funeral rites and related procedures. This educational outreach initiative extended MNU’s learning opportunities beyond campus, strengthened local capacity to conduct funeral rites in accordance with Islamic principles, and supported community needs during bereavement.

• Workplace Mental Health and Psychological Well-being

As part of its World Mental Health Day activities, MNU conducted two workplace mental health awareness sessions in October 2025 for staff of the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and Fuel Supply Maldives. The session for HDC customer front-office staff was held on 7 October and facilitated by Mariyam Ifshan Ahmed, while the session for Fuel Supply Maldives staff took place on 9 October, facilitated by Mariyam Ifshan Ahmed and Afaa Mohamed. Both sessions focused on raising awareness of workplace mental health, recognising common mental health concerns, and identifying strategies to support psychological well-being. By extending mental health education into workplace settings, these initiatives encouraged early help-seeking and promoted supportive workplace practices that contribute to employee well-being.

 

COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND AWARENESS

• Parental Education and Literacy Awareness

Maldives National University (MNU) extended educational outreach to parents through two initiatives aimed at strengthening family involvement in children’s learning. A career guidance information session at Th. Guraidhoo School on 18 June 2025 supported parents in understanding how to guide their children’s educational choices and future career pathways.

A parental awareness session at Naivaadhoo School on 14 September 2025 promoted reading habits and highlighted the role of parents in supporting children’s literacy development at home. Through these initiatives, MNU encouraged parents to actively contribute to their children’s educational progression and foster a supportive learning environment beyond the classroom. These activities reflect the University’s commitment to community engagement and inclusive education.

• Promoting Environmental Awareness and Sustainable Development

MNU School of Nursing staff and students supported a community coastal cleanup organised in collaboration with the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) by providing first aid services to participants. This contribution supported the safe conduct of the community initiative while providing an opportunity to promote environmental awareness and responsible practices to protect coastal environments. The activity demonstrates MNU’s commitment to community engagement and supporting environmental initiatives

MNU Thinadhoo Campus collaborated with the Business Center Corporation (BCC), Thinadhoo City Council, and the Women’s Development Committee of GDh. Thinadhoo to organise the World Tourism Day Forum 2025 under the theme “Tourism Beyond Boundaries: Building Linkages Across Sectors.” The forum brought together experts, community leaders, and local stakeholders to discuss sustainable tourism and opportunities for collaboration across sectors. Through its involvement, MNU supported community-based knowledge sharing and dialogue on sustainable development, highlighting the importance of responsible tourism and the role of local communities in shaping a sustainable future. This initiative reflects MNU’s commitment to extending educational engagement beyond the university and supporting community awareness of sustainability. 

On 12 May 2025, MNU Business School collaborated with the Ministry of Finance and Planning and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) to host the Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific 2025 forum. Held under the theme “Understanding the Macroeconomic Implications of Climate Change,” the forum provided a platform for knowledge exchange on incorporating climate considerations into economic planning and sustainable development strategies. MNU contributed academic expertise through the participation of Dr Ahmed Inaz, a senior lecturer and assistant professor, as a panel member, while the Dean of MNU Business School delivered the closing remarks. Through this collaborative initiative, MNU supported the sharing of knowledge on climate-related economic challenges and policy responses.

On 25 September 2025, the Centre for Maritime Studies (CMS) at The Maldives National University conducted a public outreach activity near the Vilimale’ Ferry Terminal to mark World Maritime Day. Guided by the global theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” the activity engaged members of the public through interactive discussions and awareness-raising activities on ocean stewardship, sustainable maritime practices and the importance of the maritime sector to the Maldives. Participants were encouraged to recognise their shared responsibility for protecting marine environments and using ocean resources sustainably. The activity also introduced the public to maritime education and CMS’s role in developing skilled professionals for the sector. Through this initiative, MNU extended learning beyond the campus, promoted public understanding of marine sustainability and supported community awareness of the importance of responsible ocean use.

• Supporting Social Reform via Community-Based Religious and Civic Education 

The MNU Faculty of Shari’ah and Law (FSL) conducted a community awareness programme across 10 islands of Alif Dhaalu Atoll during Ramadan 1446. Delivered by academic staff from the Department of Shari’ah and the Department of Islamic Studies, together with invited Islamic scholars, the programme provided island communities with opportunities to deepen their understanding of Islamic teachings through religious lectures and forums. Organised in response to community requests, the initiative extended MNU’s educational engagement beyond its campuses, making religious knowledge accessible to local communities and supporting lifelong learning, spiritual development and community participation.

MNU Thinadhoo Campus, in collaboration with Thinadhoo City Council, Arutha NGO and Tibyan Tarbiyya Centre, conducted “Namaadhu Workshop 2 – Dheenuge Thanbu” in Thinadhoo. The seven-hour programme was delivered over two days and involved 35 participants, supported by nine lecturers and field experts. It combined structured learning sessions with guided practical activities in mosques. The workshop provided an opportunity for community participants to strengthen their understanding through discussion and practice. 

On 2 October 2025, the Faculty of Shariah and Law (FSL) of the Maldives National University (MNU) conducted an educational outreach forum in Ihavandhoo, organised by Ihavandhoo Council in collaboration with the Ihavandhoo Women’s Development Committee. Led by Dean Dr. Abdul Sattar Abdul Rahman, the sessions covered social reform, the qualities of a good student, and Islamic jurisprudence. The initiative extended MNU’s academic expertise beyond campus, providing community-based learning opportunities on social, ethical, and Islamic topics and strengthening collaboration with local community organisations.

• Supporting Youth Development Through Community-Based Learning

As part of its educational outreach, MNU Thinadhoo Campus conducted team-building and first aid sessions for Thinadhoo City Football Club on 6 December 2025, supporting the team’s preparation for the BML Atoll Championship. The initiative provided players and support staff with opportunities to develop teamwork, communication, leadership, and collaboration skills, alongside practical knowledge of first aid and sports injury management. By extending its educational expertise to the local sports community, MNU promoted safety, well-being, and lifelong learning beyond the classroom while strengthening partnerships with community organisations.

• Public Learning through Ilmee Foavahi

In 2025, MNU’s Ilmee Foavahi academic forum series provided opportunities for academic knowledge and research-informed discussion to reach wider audiences. Topics recorded for the series included reading promotion, preparation for Ramadan, women’s participation in the maritime industry, non-communicable diseases, data-driven decision-making, dementia awareness, cybersecurity and children’s digital wellbeing.

These sessions addressed educational, social, health and technology-related issues relevant to everyday life. They can be reported as community education where event records confirm public access or participation beyond MNU’s internal academic community.

• Public Lecture on Strategic Innovation and System Transformation

On 14 May 2025, MNU hosted a public lecture titled Strategic Innovation and System Transformation, delivered by Dr Luca Gatti in collaboration with UNDP Maldives and the Housing Development Corporation. The lecture brought together students, professionals, and members of the public to explore strategic innovation and approaches to system transformation. By providing access to expert knowledge and creating a platform for discussion on development issues, MNU extended learning opportunities beyond its formal academic programmes and encouraged knowledge-sharing among diverse audiences.

• Connecting Young People with Employers and Career Opportunities

From 20–22 May 2025, MNU campuses across the country held MNU Job Festival 2025, bringing together more than 1,000 participants to explore employment opportunities and career pathways. Through direct engagement with employers and access to career-related information, participants gained insights into workplace expectations, employment prospects, and the skills needed to succeed in the labour market. By bridging education and employment, MNU supported career development, employability, and lifelong learning.

• Promoting Electrical Safety Awareness and Risk Prevention

On 19 February 2025, MNU Hithadhoo Campus hosted a Electrical Safety and Awareness Session delivered by FEST for approximately 30 participants. The session provided practical knowledge to help participants recognise potential risks, understand safety practices, and respond more effectively in different settings. By promoting safety awareness and personal responsibility, the initiative supported safer learning, workplace, and community environments.

• Empowering Individuals through Rehabilitation-Focused Life Skills Education

On 19 June 2025, MNU Hithadhoo Campus conducted a life skills session for approximately 15 clients of the Drug Detoxification and Community Rehabilitation Center (DDCRC). The session focused on developing practical skills to support everyday decision-making, build confidence, and encourage positive social participation. By extending educational opportunities to individuals undergoing rehabilitation, MNU supported personal development and the development of skills that can assist their recovery and reintegration into the community.

• Public Education through the Ilm an-Nafs Podcast

From August to December 2025, Ibrahim Ismail, a staff member of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Maldives National University (MNU), contributed to Ilm an-Nafs, a 13-episode podcast series produced by ‘Dheenuge Adu’ (Public Service Media) in association with the Maldives Association of Islamic Psychology (MAIP). As a content developer and co-presenter, he helped share knowledge on psychology, mental health and wellbeing with the public. The initiative extended educational opportunities beyond campus by making psychological knowledge accessible through public media, supporting community learning and awareness.