The Maldives National University (MNU) and the University of Bangladesh have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening cooperation in higher education.

The agreement was signed at a special ceremony held at MNU.

Vice Chancellor Dr Aishath Shehenaz Adam signed on behalf of MNU, while the agreement was signed on behalf of Bangladesh by Muhammad Nazmul Islam, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to the Maldives.

Speaking at the ceremony, High Commissioner Muhammad Nazmul Islam underscored the importance of formal collaboration between MNU and leading universities in Bangladesh.

He noted that similar agreements are being planned with institutions including the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh University of Professionals, and Bangladesh Maritime University.

He said such partnerships would facilitate joint research initiatives, specialised training programmes, and the exchange of students and academic staff between the two countries.

Vice Chancellor Dr Aishath Shehenaz Adam said MNU is keen to engage experienced academics from Bangladesh for short-term appointments and to conduct specialised training programmes.

She highlighted that MNU operates 21 centres across the Maldives, presenting significant opportunities to host joint seminars, conferences and academic events.

She also announced plans to introduce a Bengali language course at MNU to support the country’s tourism sector.

In addition, Dr Shehenaz highlighted ongoing research into challenges faced by foreign workers in the Maldives and called for Bangladesh’s cooperation in awareness and outreach initiatives.

Describing the agreement as a major step towards enhancing academic quality, the Vice Chancellor said it would enable joint academic programmes, collaborative research projects and field studies between the two institutions.

She said the agreement will benefit the students in several disciplines, including engineering, technology, business and environmental studies, and both institutions are expected to gain significantly from this collaboration,

Under the memorandum, the two universities will implement initiatives to strengthen institutional ties, including facilitating opportunities for higher education and PhD studies in engineering sciences and architecture-related fields.

The agreement also covers training programmes aimed at enhancing the skills and capacities of university staff.

The memorandum further seeks to strengthen cooperation in key academic and strategic areas, including international relations, engineering technology, business studies and environmental sciences.