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Cross sectoral dialogue about SDGs

In 2024, Ƶ further strengthened its role as a national and regional leader in fostering multi-stakeholder dialogue on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In 2024, Ƶ further strengthened its role as a national and regional leader in fostering multi-stakeholder dialogue on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through a diverse portfolio of conferences, forums, public lectures, workshops, exhibitions, and cultural exchange events, the College provided inclusive platforms for researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, NGOs, community representatives, students, and international partners to engage in meaningful conversations, share evidence-based insights, and co-develop solutions to pressing social, environmental, and economic challenges. These cross-sectoral dialogues—ranging from high-level policy forums to grassroots community workshops—were intentionally designed to bridge academic research with real-world application, aligning with SDG 17’s emphasis on partnerships while advancing progress across multiple goals, including quality education, good health and well-being, gender equality, climate action, and life below water. The 2024 programme demonstrated Ƶ’s ability to convene diverse sectors, facilitate open knowledge exchange, and inspire collaborative action that extends beyond the immediate event. By embedding these dialogues into the institutional culture, Ƶ continues to position itself as a hub for knowledge generation and dissemination in the Maldives, promoting a research-driven approach to sustainable development and ensuring that academic expertise contributes directly to societal impact.

Ƶ Research Forum

On 26 February 2024, the Institute for Research and Innovation (IRI) organised the Research Forum as part of the preparatory phase for shaping the Ƶ Research Strategy. The one-day event combined plenary addresses with facilitated group discussions, creating an interactive environment for exchanging ideas and identifying strategic research priorities. The forum’s design encouraged open, multi-directional dialogue, enabling stakeholders to contribute both sector-specific knowledge and cross-sector perspectives.

: The forum brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including:

  • Academics and researchers from Ƶ and partner institutions

  • Government officials and policymakers

  • Industry representatives from key sectors

  • Representatives from UN organisations

  • Members of NGOs and civil society groups

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), discussions explored: Priority research areas for Ƶ’s new institutional strategy, Sector-specific and cross-sector research needs, Opportunities for academia–industry partnerships and Emerging trends in research, with potential applications in tourism, public health, environment, and technology.

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The forum produced a set of agreed priority research themes to guide Ƶ’s strategic plan and identified concrete opportunities for industry–academia collaboration. Stakeholders committed to exploring joint projects in areas such as sustainable tourism, renewable energy, and applied health research. The open, inclusive dialogue also strengthened relationships between Ƶ and national as well as international partners, ensuring a broad base of support for the College’s research agenda going forward.

Third International Conference on Women’s Rights in Emerging Societies

The International Conference on Women’s Rights in Emerging Societies, co-hosted by Symbiosis International University and Ƶ on 26 February 2024, brought together legal scholars, educators, and researchers to examine gender equality and women’s rights within rapidly changing socio-economic and legal landscapes. The one-day event featured keynote speeches, technical sessions, and thematic discussions.

Participating Sectors: Attendees included academics, researchers, NGO representatives, and legal practitioners from institutions across South Asia and beyond, such as the American International University Bangladesh, SRM University, and Jus Corpus Law Journal.

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), the conference examined women’s participation in socio-economic life, legal reform, and strategies to overcome systemic barriers in emerging societies.

Specific Examples & Outcomes: Ƶ’s keynote included a case study on institutional gender ratios among students, graduates, and staff, showcasing proactive steps to address disparity. The event strengthened academic ties with South Asian institutions, laying the groundwork for comparative research projects on gender rights in small island and developing country contexts.

Action Research Workshop and Compendium Launch

On 2 March 2024, the ‘A Multimodal Approach to Teacher Professional Development in Low Resource Settings’ (MATPD) project, funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), launched the Action Research for Transformative Teaching and Learning training workshop alongside the . This four-day training, part of the South Asian Teacher Educators (SATE) Fellowship, was delivered in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the National Institute of Education, and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (India). The workshop blended presentations, interactive sessions, and resource-sharing activities, focusing on building capacity among leading teachers in action research, mentoring, Open Educational Resources (OER), and Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI).

Participating Sectors: The event engaged teacher educators, leading teachers from schools, education policymakers, and representatives from national and international academic institutions. Key partners included the Ministry of Education, National Institute of Education, and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (India).

Topics Covered: Directly aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality), the programme addressed:

  • Implementation of action research in schools

  • Strengthening mentoring practices for teacher development

  • Utilising Open Educational Resources (OER) in low-resource contexts

  • Embedding Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) in teaching practice

Specific Examples & Outcomes:

  • High-level engagement: The ceremony was inaugurated by Deputy Minister of Education, Mr. Hussain Shakir, who stressed the need for research findings to reach grassroots school communities rather than remain unused.

  • Thought leadership: Project Principal Investigator and Associate Dean of FES, Ms. Fathimath Saeed, underscored the project’s focus on transformative change in teacher professional development.

  • International collaboration: Co-Principal Investigator Dr. Ruchi Kumar (TISS) commended the cross-country collaboration that made the compendium possible.

  • Institutional recognition: Ƶ Rector, Dr. Ahmed Anwar, closed the event with a call to embrace innovation in education, quoting John Dewey: “If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow.”

  • Tangible outputs: The launch of the Action Research Compendium documented and disseminated innovative classroom practices by teacher educators across three countries, offering a practical resource for scaling effective teaching methods.

Igniting Innovation: From Ideation to Implementation

A public lecturer was hosted on 10 June 2024, titled , led by Dr. Tazeen Rizvi, Co-Founder and CEO of Xeven Health and Pulse 360 Healthcare Transformation Advisor. The lecture was designed to inspire innovation across sectors, with a strong focus on healthcare, by providing practical strategies for transforming ideas into actionable, high-impact solutions.

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Participating Sectors: This session attracted around 50+ participants, including students, academics, policymakers, NGO representatives, and health sector professionals.

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the session covered: innovation as a necessity in today’s fast-changing world, approaches to identifying and addressing user needs effectively, and strategies for successful implementation and scaling of innovative solutions

Specific Examples & Outcomes: Dr. Rizvi’s presentation encouraged participants to view innovation as a core driver of sustainable development rather than an optional enhancement. Attendees reported increased confidence in applying innovation frameworks to their work, with some expressing intent to integrate these principles into upcoming projects in healthcare and education.

Inaugural International Conference on Sustainable Materials & Advances in Renewable Technologies (SMART’24)

The SMART’24 Conference, organised by the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, was a one-day academic–industry platform held on 15 July 2024, addressing cutting-edge solutions in renewable energy and sustainable materials. The programme included keynote speeches, technical paper presentations, and expert panel discussions.

Participating Sectors: , students, researchers, private sector professionals, government officials, and representatives from agencies and universities, both national and international.

Topics Covered: Linked to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action), the discussions covered battery thermal management in EVs, ocean-based energy generation, and sustainable university residence retrofitting.

Specific Examples & Outcomes: Keynote addresses by Special Envoy Shareef and Dr. Alankrita Singh underscored the Maldives’ need to diversify renewable energy sources beyond solar. Discussions led to exploratory talks on pilot projects for ocean energy generation and partnerships with Malaysian universities for sustainable engineering practices.

Health Expert Sessions on Diabetes, Disability, Drug Discovery, and Pharmacovigilance

Throughout 2024, the Faculty of Health Sciences at Ƶ hosted a , including diabetes, disability inclusion, drug discovery, and pharmacovigilance. Each session, conducted on separate days, aimed to raise awareness, share specialised knowledge, and inspire dialogue on diverse health and sustainable development issues. The initiative formed part of Ƶ’s commitment to connecting academic learning with real-world expertise and fostering collaboration across health-related sectors.

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Participating Sectors: Each session engaged between 30 and 60 participants, representing students, healthcare professionals, community members, government health agencies, NGOs, academia, and industry experts. Partners included the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), civil society organisations, and representatives from the pharmaceutical industry.

Topics Covered: These sessions addressed multiple SDG-related health priorities:

  • SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being: Clinical management and prevention strategies for diabetes; safety monitoring in pharmacovigilance

  • SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Promoting disability inclusion in healthcare systems

  • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Building multi-sectoral collaborations in drug discovery research and public health innovation

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The sessions strengthened stakeholder networks in key health areas and provided a practical learning platform for health sciences students. They also helped inform discussions on integrating disability-sensitive approaches in medical education and expanding local pharmacovigilance systems.

Public Lecture – Cardiology & Public Health

As part of Ƶ’s ongoing commitment to advancing health knowledge and fostering global–local collaboration in medical education, the Faculty of Health Sciences hosted a distinguished public lecture on . The event was designed to connect Maldivian healthcare professionals, students, and the wider community with international expertise, ensuring that the latest evidence-based practices in cardiovascular care inform both clinical practice and public health policy.

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Participating Sectors: Attendees represented diverse sectors including international healthcare, academia, public health agencies, students, and members of the general public, creating a multidisciplinary environment for learning and exchange.

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), the lecture explored:

  • Prevention and early detection of cardiovascular diseases

  • Integrating cardiology research into population health strategies

  • Community-level interventions to reduce heart disease risk

  • The role of global collaborations in advancing national health priorities

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The lecture attracted approximately 100 participants, marking a significant milestone in Ƶ’s international academic engagement. A key outcome was the formal appointment of the Mayo Clinic speaker as an Adjunct Professor at Ƶ, opening doors for future collaborations, joint research, and enhanced clinical training opportunities.

Third Virtual International Conference on Women's Rights, Social Equity, and Legal Transformation

The was hosted by Symbiosis Law School (Nagpur) in collaboration with Jus Corpus and the Faculty of Shariah & Law, on 1 November 2024. Conducted in a fully online format, the event featured keynote addresses, thematic panel discussions, and interactive Q&A sessions. The virtual platform enabled broad participation across regions and time zones, creating an inclusive environment for global exchange on pressing legal and social equity issues.

Participating Sectors: The conference brought together a diverse group of participants including academics, legal practitioners, international delegates, researchers, and students from multiple jurisdictions. This multidisciplinary participation encouraged cross-border learning and the sharing of comparative legal experiences.

Topics Covered: Dialogue focused on SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Key themes included women's legal rights in emerging societies, advancing social equity through legal reforms, and strategies for transformative change in law and governance to protect and empower women.

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The conference successfully produced a set of recommendations for gender-focused legal reforms, emphasising the need for inclusive policy-making and cross-sector partnerships. Beyond the formal sessions, the event fostered new professional connections and reinforced a shared commitment to advancing women’s rights globally.

3SWater Project: Water and Development Symposium

The , organised by IHE Delft, held on 14 November 2024 brought together over 150 participants in an international platform combining keynote talks, thematic breakout sessions, and networking opportunities.

Participating Sectors: Attendees included academics, policy advisors, water sector practitioners, and community representatives from around the world.

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 6, the symposium explored innovative water governance approaches, equitable resource distribution, and sustainable development strategies for vulnerable regions, with a special focus on SIDS.

Specific Examples & Outcomes: Ƶ’s participation enhanced international understanding of SIDS’ water issues, positioned the College as a credible partner for global water research, and opened discussions for joint projects on coastal water management.

Australia Maldives Dialogue Series on Youth Mental Health

As part of the , the Institute for Research and Innovation (IRI) hosted a public lecture on Youth Mental Health on 10 June 2024. The session was facilitated by Professor Patrick McGorry, Professor for Youth Mental Health at the University of Melbourne and Executive Director of Orygen, Australia’s leading youth mental health organisation. This lecture was designed as an open knowledge-sharing platform, combining an expert presentation with interactive discussion to promote awareness, research exchange, and policy engagement.

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Participating Sectors: The session brought together over 100 participants, including students, academics, policymakers, NGO representatives, and mental health professionals. Representatives from the Australian High Commission in the Maldives were also present, reinforcing the diplomatic and collaborative dimensions of the dialogue.

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the lecture addressed: complex factors affecting youth mental health beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of public policy and community support systems in prevention and intervention, and evidence-based approaches to improving mental health services for young people

Specific Examples & Outcomes: Professor McGorry challenged the oversimplified narrative that COVID-19 alone caused the decline in youth mental health, instead highlighting a broader set of social, economic, and environmental factors. The lecture fostered dialogue between mental health practitioners and policymakers, laying groundwork for future collaborative programmes and research in youth mental health in the Maldives.

Psychology Symposium

The , organised by the School of Psychology and Counselling, was a one-day academic gathering held on 23 November 2024 designed as both a symposium and networking event. It provided a structured platform for professional and academic exchange through keynote presentations, thematic discussions, and Q&A sessions. The event aimed to advance knowledge in mental health, forensic psychology, and developmental psychology while fostering collaboration between academics, practitioners, and students.

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Participating Sectors: Participants included psychologists, counsellors, academics, researchers, mental health practitioners, and students. The dialogue bridged academia with applied practice by bringing together representatives from educational institutions, mental health service providers, and community organisations.

Topics Covered: The primary focus aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), with discussions on mental health policy, advancements in forensic psychology, and strategies for improving developmental psychology services.

Specific Examples & Outcomes: Key outcomes included increased awareness of mental health service integration within public health systems, the development of interest groups in forensic psychology research, and strengthened professional networks among participants. Feedback indicated that the symposium fostered new collaborations between mental health professionals and academic researchers, setting the stage for future joint projects.

Psychology Exhibition

Following the Psychology Symposium, on 24 November 2024 was a one-day, public-facing event designed to make psychological science accessible through interactive learning. The exhibition featured themed stalls, live demonstrations, and hands-on experiments, encouraging visitors to engage with psychological concepts in a practical and relatable way.

Participating Sectors: The exhibition involved academics, practitioners, researchers, and students from the psychology field. It also actively engaged community members, including school groups, parents, and the general public.

Topics Covered: The exhibition addressed SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by focusing on mental health, forensic psychology, and developmental psychology. Topics ranged from understanding mental disorders to exploring criminal behaviour and promoting child development.

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The exhibition succeeded in demystifying psychological science, improving community understanding of mental health issues, and sparking youth interest in psychology careers. Several NGOs expressed interest in collaborating with the College to run school-based awareness programmes, marking a direct outcome of the event’s outreach focus.

Maritime Silk Road International Cultural Tourism Festival

On 7 December 2024, representatives from Ƶ and Villa International High School participated in the and the award ceremony for Fujian Province’s 3rd Youth Photography & Short Video Competition. This international cultural exchange event celebrated creative arts, cultural heritage, and tourism promotion along the historic Maritime Silk Road. The programme included speeches, award presentations, cultural showcases, and promotional presentations by invited guests from participating countries.

Participating Sectors: The festival engaged a broad range of stakeholders, including cultural and tourism boards, academic institutions, creative arts communities, students, private sector tourism operators, and government representatives. The Maldivian delegation included Prof. Ma Yuehan, Director of the Chinese Language Centre at Ƶ; Villa International High School student Laisa Naushad Mohamed; and Ƶ lecturer Mohamed Aiman Naseer. Malé City Mayor Adam Azim also addressed the award ceremony as a guest speaker.

Topics Covered: The event aligned with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), with themes including: cultural heritage promotion and preservation, creative industry development through photography and video, sustainable and collaborative tourism marketing across Maritime Silk Road partner countries, and strengthening cross-cultural understanding through arts and education

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The Maldivian delegation achieved notable success in the 3rd Youth Photography & Short Video Competition:

  • Excellence Award (Group B, Short Videos): Laisa Naushad Mohamed (Villa International High School)

  • Third Prize: Easha Ismail Hameed

  • Excellence Award: Ahmed Aail Faruhaad

Participation in the festival strengthened Ƶ’s ties with Chinese cultural and educational partners, elevated the international profile of Maldivian creative talent, and reinforced the College’s role as a bridge for cultural diplomacy through academic engagement.

3SWater Project: Regional Workshop and Seminar

This four-day regional dialogue was co-organised by Ƶ and the The first three days (9-11 December 2024) consisted of a , followed by a concluding on 12 December 2024 at Ƶ. The programme was highly interactive, featuring presentations, group work, and regional experience sharing.

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Participating Sectors: Academics, researchers, NGOs, government agencies, and international delegates from the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and South China Seas regions took part.

Topics Covered: Focused on SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), topics included water governance in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), climate adaptation strategies, and community-based water security innovations.

Specific Examples & Outcomes: Student research was incorporated into broader policy debates, stakeholders identified potential pilot projects for island water management, and commitments were made to pursue further regional collaboration on water security.

The International Conference On “Waves of Change: Nurturing Ocean Resilience and Charting Sustainable Futures”

The was a landmark global gathering focused on advancing marine governance, ocean resilience, and sustainability. The inaugural session was held on 10 December 2024 at Ƶ. The conference combined keynote presentations, high-level panel discussions, and scholarly paper sessions to foster cross-sectoral dialogue on protecting and sustainably managing marine ecosystems.

Participating Sectors: The conference convened over 100 participants, including global leaders, academics, environmental scientists, legal experts, sustainability advocates, and representatives from NGOs and policy institutions. Academic and institutional partners included DEHUKAM, University of Ankara, Caribbean Environmental Law Unit, University of the West Indies, Symbiosis International University, Gujarat Maritime University, Gujarat National Law University, and Ocean Parley (Maldives).

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the conference addressed:

  • Ocean governance frameworks and enforcement mechanisms

  • Marine biodiversity conservation strategies

  • Climate resilience for coastal and island communities

  • Legal instruments for sustainable maritime resource use

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The conference featured the presentation of 85 scholarly papers from contributors across all continents, demonstrating global commitment to ocean sustainability. Tangible outcomes included the establishment of an international working group on ocean law, initiation of academic exchange programmes between Ƶ and partner institutions, and the identification of collaborative research opportunities on marine governance and climate resilience. The event also elevated Ƶ’s visibility as a regional hub for legal scholarship and sustainability advocacy.

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), the dialogue covered marine biodiversity protection, sustainable fisheries management, and international maritime law.

Specific Examples & Outcomes: An international working group on ocean law was established, new academic partnerships were initiated, and collaborative plans were made for student exchange programmes in marine law.

Ƶ Poster Fair

On 22 December 2024, Ƶ hosted the , a vibrant academic showcase aimed at celebrating and strengthening the institution’s growing research culture. The one-day event featured 16 posters, including three student-led projects, reflecting the College’s commitment to fostering research engagement across all levels of the academic community. The fair was designed as an open, interactive platform where presenters and attendees could engage in dialogue, share ideas, and explore opportunities for collaboration.

The fair brought together a diverse range of participants, including faculty members, students, researchers, and invited guests from academia and civil society. It also reflected international academic collaboration, as it was organised under the guidance of Associate Professor Dr. Charles Vanover, a visiting Fulbright Scholar, in partnership with the Faculty of Educational Studies (FES) and the Institute for Research and Innovation (IRI).

Topics Covered: Posters covered a wide variety of themes aligned with multiple SDGs, including:

  • SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): mental health research and wellbeing initiatives

  • SDG 4 (Quality Education): educational practices and innovation in teaching

  • SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): skills development and employability studies

  • SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): applied research in technology and sustainable development

  • SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): examples of research collaboration and capacity building

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The fair showcased student research alongside faculty projects, highlighting the integration of research into the student learning experience. Attendees engaged in in-depth discussions on topics ranging from inclusive education to applied social research, creating networking opportunities that may lead to joint research projects. The event also strengthened Ƶ’s profile as a research hub in the Maldives, with the involvement of an international visiting scholar reinforcing its global academic connections.

Symposium – Precision Medicine Focused Healthcare

On 5 March 2024, Ƶ, in coordination with the Villa Foundation and Auburn University, USA, conducted a The event was designed to introduce the Maldivian healthcare community to the concepts, applications, and future potential of precision medicine, and to explore pathways for adapting these innovations to local healthcare needs.

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Participating Sectors: The symposium brought together approximately 80 participants, including students, faculty, healthcare practitioners, representatives from NGOs, research foundations, and academic institutions. This diverse audience ensured a comprehensive discussion from clinical, academic, and policy perspectives.

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), the symposium covered:

  • Genomics and biomarker-based diagnostics for improved disease prediction

  • Development of personalised treatment pathways

  • Data-driven approaches to patient care

  • Ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations in adopting precision medicine in the Maldives

  • Strategies for integrating precision medicine into low- and middle-income healthcare systems

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The symposium catalysed interest among healthcare professionals in pursuing collaborative research in precision medicine and bioinformatics. Key discussions highlighted opportunities for joint projects between Maldivian health institutions and U.S.-based research teams, and initiated plans to explore the inclusion of precision medicine topics in Ƶ’s health sciences curriculum.

KIX Maldives Uptake Forum

The KIX EMAP Hub National Uptake Forum held on 29 May 2024 in the Maldives was a high-level national platform aimed at fostering knowledge exchange and enhancing the use of research findings in education policy and practice. The one-day event was structured into two major components: keynote addresses and thematic sessions. Keynotes focused on challenges and experiences in translating policy research into actionable change, while thematic sessions—moderated by a chair and supported by a discussant—featured presentations on KIX activities in the Maldives, followed by discussions that identified connection points relevant to the national Partnership Compact and the broader education system.

Participating Sectors: The forum brought together a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, key public and private education institutions, Coordinating Agency and LEG members, civil society representatives, the KIX research project team in the Maldives, as well as international representatives from the GPE Secretariat, IDRC, and KIX EMAP Hub. Notable participants included Honourable Minister of Education Dr. Ismail Shafeeu; Javier Luque, CTL, GPE; Sangay Jamtsho, Senior Program Officer, IDRC; and Jose Luis Canelhas, Director, KIX EMAP Hub.

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the forum explored:

  • Strategies for improving uptake of policy research in education

  • Strengthening research–policy linkages

  • Aligning evidence-based interventions with the national Partnership Compact

  • Showcasing and learning from ongoing KIX activities in the Maldives

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The , set a collaborative tone. The Honourable Minister of Education’s opening remarks underscored the forum’s role in advancing educational innovation. Insights from GPE, IDRC, and KIX EMAP Hub representatives deepened understanding of international collaboration mechanisms. The forum concluded with closing remarks from the KIX EMAP Hub, thanking participants and reaffirming a shared commitment to education reform. Tangible outcomes included identification of specific research–policy integration opportunities, strengthened collaboration between education stakeholders, and reinforced alignment of ongoing initiatives with the national Partnership Compact.

9th International Conference on Social Research and Innovation (ICSRI) 2024

The organised by the Institute for Research and Innovation, was held from 8–9 June in Malé under the theme “Innovations for Sustainability: Forging the Path Ahead.” The hybrid-format conference offered both in-person participation and online access through live streaming on Facebook and TV, enabling broader engagement from local and international audiences. The event featured 53 peer-reviewed paper presentations across eight thematic categories, complemented by four keynote speeches and five panel discussions on pressing topics such as climate change, bullying, and the role of data in evidence-based decision making.

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Participating Sectors: ICSRI engaged a diverse mix of academics, researchers, government officials, NGO representatives, private sector leaders, and students. The presence of the UN Resident Coordinator, Bradley J. Busetto, as chief guest highlighted the international dimension of the event.

Topics Covered: The eight thematic tracks were directly aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

  1. Policy, Law, and Governance – SDG 16

  2. Entrepreneurship, Finance, and Industry – SDG 8 & 17

  3. Environment, Sustainability, and Development – SDG 7, 11, 13, 14, 15

  4. Human Rights, Gender, and Society – SDG 1, 5, 10

  5. Education, Language, and Skill Development – SDG 4

  6. Health, Nursing, and Social Work – SDG 3, 2

  7. Psychology, Lifestyle, and Well-being – SDG 12

  8. Engineering, Technology, and Innovation – SDG 9

The conference theme encouraged exploration of practical, globally applicable innovations to address complex and interlinked sustainability challenges. ICSRI 2024 solidified Ƶ’s role as the Maldives’ leading convenor of inclusive, cross-sectoral research dialogue, producing tangible academic, professional, and policy impacts in alignment with the SDGs.

National Skills & Career Expo

From 17–18 November 2024, the Faculty of Health Sciences at Ƶ actively participated in the , a flagship national event organised by the Ministry of Youth and involving key partners from government, the private sector, and academia. The Expo aimed to promote diverse career opportunities, skills training pathways, and education programmes to a wide audience, with Ƶ showcasing its health sciences programmes and contributions to public health.

Participating Sectors: The Expo attracted approximately 200 participants, including students, recent graduates, job seekers, educators, government agencies, private sector employers, and academic institutions. Ƶ’s presence allowed for direct engagement with both prospective students and industry partners.

Topics Covered: Aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), Ƶ’s participation included:

  • Career pathways in nursing, public health, and allied health sciences

  • Skills training for healthcare careers

  • Public health awareness campaigns

  • Information on scholarships, internships, and industry partnerships

Specific Examples & Outcomes: The event enhanced Ƶ’s visibility as a leading provider of health sciences education in the Maldives. It also facilitated discussions with potential partners for internships and training collaborations, while offering immediate public health benefits through the free health screenings conducted at the booth.

In 2024, Ƶ demonstrated significant progress in fostering cross-sectoral dialogue, strengthening partnerships, and aligning its academic and outreach initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The year saw a notable expansion in health sciences-related engagements, with the Faculty of Health Sciences delivering a diverse portfolio of impactful activities. These ranged from specialised events, such as the Precision Medicine Focused Healthcare Symposium and the Public Lecture on Cardiology & Public Health, to targeted knowledge-sharing platforms, including the Health Expert Sessions. Participation in the National Skills & Career Expo further broadened the College’s outreach, connecting with future healthcare professionals and industry stakeholders. Collectively, these new initiatives complemented Ƶ’s existing conferences, public lectures, and research-focused events, enhancing both thematic diversity and sectoral representation. By embedding health, education, climate action, and innovation into its engagement strategies, Ƶ continued to strengthen its role as a neutral and inclusive platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue. This steady progression from 2023 to 2024 reflects not only a growth in the number of activities but also a deepening in the strategic impact of each initiative—positioning Ƶ as a catalyst for sustainable development, knowledge exchange, and transformative partnerships in the Maldives and beyond.

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Ƶ began its historic journey on the 28th of January 2007, with the registration of its first institute, Villa Institute of Water Sports followed by the Villa Institute of Information Technology (VIIT) and Villa Institute of Hospitality and Tourism Studies.
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