The Maldives has reached a significant milestone in its healthcare development with the graduation of its first locally trained radiographers—23 professionals who have successfully completed the Diploma in Radiography, a programme initiated in collaboration with the State Trading Organisation (STO) and GE Healthcare, a subsidiary of the United States-based General Electric.
The graduation ceremony, hosted at Villa College, highlighted the culmination of two years of dedicated effort. Officiating the event, the Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, underscored the critical value of camaraderie and collaboration in professional environments. His address also commended the decision to extend the programme in partnership with the Maldives National University (MNU), characterising it as a transformative step towards bolstering the nation's healthcare capacity.
Of the 25 students who initially enrolled, 23 persevered to complete the comprehensive curriculum, according to STO. The programme's inception was rooted in a study conducted by STO in partnership with GE Healthcare, which identified an acute need for skilled radiographers in the Maldives. STO's Managing Director, Shimad Ibrahim, reiterated the organisation's commitment to advancing the nation's health sector, highlighting the importance of strategic initiatives and investment in local expertise.
The Diploma in Radiography, designed to meet international standards, blended two years of theoretical instruction with six months of intensive practical training. Hands-on clinical experience was facilitated through partnerships with five leading hospitals in Malé: Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), ADK Hospital, Senahiya Military Hospital, Tree Top Hospital, and Hulhumalé Hospital. Following the completion of their internships, the graduates were formally certified in February 2025, STO said.
Celebrating academic excellence, Mariyam Yumna and Aminath Eman emerged as top achievers, earning distinction for their outstanding performance. Their accolades were presented by STO Chairman Amir Mansoor.
The successful execution of the course was recognised by STO, which confirmed that two graduates have already embarked on their careers, while others are actively exploring employment opportunities.