Fifteen Maldivians from relevant government ministries and agencies have completed advanced training in cyber security and resilience under a fellowship programme conducted in Australia.
The participants returned to the Maldives after completing the Cyber Security and Resilience Fellowship Programme, held in Australia from 19 January to February 3. The programme was delivered in partnership with Edith Cowan University (ECU) and the Office of the Prime Minister of Australia.
All costs of the fellowship were funded under Australia Awards 2026 by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
National Security Advisor Ibrahim Latheef, DC (Rtd), Lt Col (Rtd), participated as the keynote speaker at the opening ceremony, which was attended by the Vice-Chancellor of ECU and a senior DFAT official. The Chris Dawson, Governor of Western Australia, also hosted a reception for the fellows on 22 January.
During the programme, participants gained practical knowledge and experience in advanced cyber governance, digital risk management, incident response coordination, and resilience planning. A tabletop exercise was also conducted to simulate responses to potential cyber attacks.
The fellowship is an important step in advancing the national digitalisation agenda under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's Maldives 2.0 vision. The programme is expected to further strengthen national capacity by enhancing the skills and expertise of cyber security professionals across the country.