The Maldives National University and Hainan University have strengthened their international academic and research collaboration through the signing of an MoU between the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences of The Maldives National University and the School of Marine Biology and Fisheries of Hainan University.
The five-year, non-binding agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in marine science, fisheries, aquaculture, research, education and knowledge exchange, with a shared focus on advancing scientific knowledge and addressing marine and environmental challenges.
The MoU was signed on behalf of The Maldives National University by Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam, Vice Chancellor of The Maldives National University, alongside Professor Luo Jian of the School of Marine Biology and Fisheries at Hainan University.
Under the agreement, the two institutions will explore opportunities for joint research projects, scientific activities, academic exchanges and international conferences. The partnership will also facilitate student and faculty exchanges, guest lectures, short courses, seminars, workshops and other academic and training programmes.
A key area of collaboration will be the Science and Technology Backyard Initiative, which will focus on marine fishery resource management, coral reef protection, sustainable resource utilisation and aquaculture. Through this initiative, the institutions will seek to strengthen research capacity and promote the application of scientific knowledge in areas relevant to marine resource management and sustainability.
The agreement also provides a framework for the exchange of academic publications, research materials and technical knowledge, supporting greater knowledge sharing and collaboration between researchers and academic communities in the Maldives and China.
Through these areas of cooperation, the partnership will create opportunities for students and academics to engage in international research, strengthen academic networks and contribute to the development of knowledge and expertise in marine and fisheries sciences.
The collaboration aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water, through its focus on marine ecosystems, sustainable fisheries and coral reef protection. It also contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education through academic and student exchange; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure through research and innovation; SDG 13: Climate Action through collaboration related to climate resilience and sustainable coastal management; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through strengthened international academic and research cooperation.
The signing of the MoU marks a significant step in strengthening collaboration between The Maldives National University and Hainan University and establishes a framework for continued cooperation in education, research and knowledge exchange. The partnership is expected to create further opportunities for academic collaboration and contribute to research and capacity building in marine science and related fields.
