The Maldives National University (MNU) has been included in the QS Asia University Rankings 2027, marking an important milestone for the University and the higher education sector in the Maldives.
This recognition provides an opportunity for MNU to strengthen its visibility within the regional and international academic community and reflects its continuing efforts to enhance the quality and impact of higher education.
According to the rankings, MNU has been placed in the 1101–1200 band in Asia, among the top 400 in Southern Asia, and No. 1 in the Maldives.
The QS Asia University Rankings assess universities across a range of indicators, including academic reputation, research performance, faculty-student ratios, internationalisation and international research collaboration.
For MNU, this recognition represents an encouraging step in its continuing efforts to strengthen the quality of higher education, develop research capacity, expand academic partnerships and enhance its national and international engagement.
Recognising a Collective Journey
The University acknowledges that this milestone reflects the contributions of many individuals and institutions over several decades.
From its beginnings as a collection of higher education and training institutions to its development as the country’s national university, MNU has continued to evolve in response to the educational and developmental needs of the Maldives.
The University expresses its sincere appreciation to past and present academic and administrative staff, students, alumni, University leaders, Council members, national and international partners, and all those who have contributed to its growth and development.
Commenting on the recognition, Vice Chancellor Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam expressed her appreciation to the wider University community.
“With the blessings of Allah and through the dedication and contributions of so many people over the years, we have reached this important milestone. This recognition is meaningful not only for our University, but also for Maldivian higher education. While we are pleased to have reached this stage, we recognise that there is still much more to do. What matters most is how we continue to improve the education we provide, support our students, strengthen research and make a positive difference in the lives of the people and communities we serve.”
Continuing to Strengthen Quality and Opportunities
As the national university, MNU has an important responsibility to provide accessible and quality higher education, advance research and contribute to national development.
The University continues to strengthen its academic programmes, research activities, student support services and partnerships with higher education institutions internationally. These efforts have also contributed to expanding MNU’s academic engagement and visibility beyond the Maldives.
Participation in the QS Asia University Rankings provides an opportunity for the University to reflect on its performance against international indicators, recognise areas of strength and identify opportunities for further improvement.
While international rankings offer a useful measure of institutional performance, MNU recognises that the broader value of a university lies in its contribution to society, the opportunities it creates for learners, and the positive impact of its teaching, research and community engagement.
The University hopes that this milestone will also encourage continued progress and international engagement across the higher education sector in the Maldives.
MNU remains committed to working collaboratively with its staff, students, alumni, partners and the wider community to strengthen higher education and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.
