His Excellency, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, met senior academic and managerial staff of the University of Leeds today. The meeting took place at the University of Leeds, United Kingdom.
During the meeting, the President outlined the development priorities of the Government, stating that the Maldives is seeking international partnerships in research and education, including with the University of Leeds. He further noted the Maldives could benefit from the university’s field expertise and in developing high-quality academic programmes in the Maldives.
Speaking about efforts to rollout public service digitalisation in the Maldives, the President explored opportunities to collaborate on healthcare development and training of allied professionals in the sector. Discussions then focused on potential collaboration between the University of Leeds and the Maldives National University, towards educating and training healthcare professionals in targeted areas with skills shortage.
The President further discussed with the university on seeking opportunities for Maldivian students pursuing STEM education, an area, he noted, where more professional development is needed going forward.
The discussion also explored avenues for technical cooperation in fintech, sports, green energy, smart cities development, environment conservation and studying the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in the Maldives.
By establishing long-term ties with organisations like the University of Leeds, the Maldives is expanding access to strengthen capacity-building through exchange programmes and research cooperation. Through the exchange of knowledge and expertise, these partnerships will empower Maldivian professionals and students, supporting the country's pivotal areas for development, including public health, sustainability, and technology.