The Maldives National University (MNU) and the University of Bangladesh have formalised a new academic partnership through the signing of a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening cooperation in higher education, research and capacity development. The agreement was signed at a special ceremony held at MNU, marking an important step in deepening educational ties between the Maldives and Bangladesh and creating a framework for long-term collaboration between the two institutions.
The memorandum of understanding was signed on behalf of MNU by Vice Chancellor Dr Aishath Shehenaz Adam, while Muhammad Nazmul Islam, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to the Maldives, signed on behalf of Bangladesh. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to advancing academic excellence, fostering innovation and expanding opportunities for students and academic staff in both countries.
Speaking at the ceremony, High Commissioner Muhammad Nazmul Islam emphasised the value of formal institutional partnerships between MNU and leading universities in Bangladesh. He noted that similar memoranda of understanding are envisaged with prominent institutions such as the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh University of Professionals and Bangladesh Maritime University, underscoring Bangladesh’s broader efforts to build strong educational linkages with the Maldives. He stated that such agreements would facilitate joint research, collaborative training initiatives and the exchange of students and academic staff, contributing to knowledge sharing and mutual capacity building.
Vice Chancellor Dr Aishath Shehenaz Adam highlighted MNU’s strong interest in engaging experienced academics from Bangladesh for short-term appointments and in conducting specialised training programmes across key disciplines. She noted that MNU operates 21 centres across the Maldives, providing extensive opportunities to organise joint seminars, workshops and conferences that can reach students and professionals throughout the country. These initiatives, she said, will help broaden academic exposure and strengthen the practical relevance of university programmes.
Dr Shehenaz also outlined MNU’s intention to introduce a Bengali language course as part of efforts to support the Maldives’ tourism sector, recognising the important role played by Bangladeshi professionals within the industry. In addition, she highlighted ongoing research at MNU on challenges faced by foreign workers in the Maldives and expressed interest in working closely with Bangladesh on awareness-raising and collaborative initiatives in this area.
According to Dr Shehenaz, the agreement will enable the two universities to undertake joint academic programmes, collaborative research projects and field studies, contributing to improved teaching and learning outcomes. She said the partnership is expected to benefit students in a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, technology, business and environmental studies, while also opening pathways for higher education and PhD studies in engineering sciences and architecture-related fields.
Under the memorandum of understanding, both institutions will implement a range of initiatives designed to strengthen institutional ties and enhance staff capacities through targeted training programmes. The agreement also aims to expand cooperation in academic and strategic areas such as international relations, engineering technology, business and environmental studies, reinforcing a shared vision to enhance the quality and relevance of higher education.
The partnership between MNU and the University of Bangladesh reflects a growing commitment by both countries to invest in human capital development and international academic cooperation. It is expected to create meaningful opportunities for students, researchers and educators, while contributing to stronger people-to-people connections and a more dynamic higher education landscape for the Maldives and Bangladesh.
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