First Lady Fazna Ahmed has stressed the importance of clear and effective communication between academics, technical experts, and policymakers. She made the remark while speaking at the opening ceremony of the Theveli 2023 International Conference.
During the inaugural ceremony, First Lady Fazna stressed the importance of research in making informed policy decisions. She said that research is the cornerstone of the decision-making process, providing valuable insights and data to guide policymakers. She emphasised the importance of research in this process, highlighting its ability to provide a systematic and evidence-based approach to understanding complex problems and evaluating potential solutions. She added that by utilising research, individuals can make informed decisions and develop effective strategies for addressing their challenges.
Additionally, First Lady Fazna underscored the role of research in supporting effective policy-making and highlighted how research can help identify the most pressing issues and inform the development of policies that address these challenges. She noted that equitable development across all inhabited islands is only possible through thoroughly understanding local needs and using research to support policy decisions.
Furthermore, First Lady Fazna stressed the importance of clear and effective communication between academics, technical experts, and policymakers. She underlined that good communication is essential for ensuring research findings are accurately conveyed and effectively applied in decision-making. By fostering collaboration and dialogue between these groups, the First Lady believes that more effective policies can be developed to address the challenges facing the Maldives and other countries.
Concluding her remarks, First Lady Fazna urged voters to use the upcoming presidential election as an opportunity to conduct research and make informed decisions. She encouraged individuals to seek information on the candidates and their policies and carefully consider how they would impact their lives. She added that by taking the time to research and compare the various options, voters can make informed choices that reflect their values and priorities.
At the ceremony, First Lady Fazna presented awards for Early Career Research and Outstanding Papers of the Conference. The awards recognise the exceptional contributions of researchers and academics in their respective fields and highlight the importance of research in advancing knowledge and informing policy decisions.
The Theveli 2023 International Conference is organised by the Maldives National University's (MNU) Research Development Office. This year's conference is being held under the theme: Research for Informed Policy Decisions. The conference provides a platform for experts and leaders from various fields to discuss and share ideas on important issues. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the conference aims to promote evidence-based decision-making and support the development of effective policies.