The Maldives is embarking on an ambitious journey to shape its future through a comprehensive 20-year National Development Plan, a visionary roadmap aimed at elevating the nation to developed country status.
In a significant move to ensure the plan is grounded in evidence-based decision-making, Nexia Maldives, the independent consultancy firm tasked with its formulation, has launched a platform for the submission of ideas and proposals based on scientific research and findings.
This initiative underscores a core principle of the plan's development: to incorporate insights from the general public, experts across various fields, and rigorous scientific research. According to Nexia Maldives, one of the most crucial elements of this endeavor is the meticulous gathering of information informed by scientific inquiry.
The newly introduced platform is designed to facilitate contributions from a wide range of stakeholders. University students and researchers are encouraged to submit ideas stemming from their studies and findings.
Additionally, experts actively involved in policy formulation are invited to share their perspectives and insights. These scientific research papers are expected to encompass previous experiences, recent findings, and forward-looking ideas to guide the country's development trajectory.
Nexia Maldives Managing Director Hamid Sadiq confirmed to PSM News that submissions related to these research findings can currently be made through links shared on Nexia's social media platforms with a dedicated website for submissions slated to be launched in the near future.
"Various studies conducted with experts and citizens' opinions will be presented. The findings and improvements will be presented as a summary. The links will be on the social media page. We will launch the website very soon,” Hamid revealed.
These scientific studies are set to be presented and discussed at an upcoming seminar dedicated to the National Development Plan. The deadline for submitting these papers is 15 October.
The overarching objective of this scientific, research-driven approach is to ensure that long-term decisions are based on solid evidence and reflect the aspirations of the Maldivian people. The plan aims to foster constructive and sustainable decisions that will enhance the lives of citizens in the future, building upon the current situation in the Maldives.