The Maldives National University (MNU) has launched the 8th edition of its annual Theveli International Conference, featuring 198 research papers.
The conference, held every year since 2017, will run from 18 to 21 August. The theme of this year's conference is "Evolving Paradigms: Merging Research, Evidence, and Practice".
The opening ceremony of the Theveli International Conference was graced by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Abdulla Khaleel. The ceremony was attended by MNU’s Chancellor Dr Mahamood Shougee, Vice-Chancellor Aishath Shehenaz Adam, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, University officials, government officials, keynote speakers, presenters, conference participants, and university staff.
The main objective of the Theveli Conference is to present research findings and foster a research culture among students. It also provides a platform for local and international researchers to collaborate, exchange ideas, and promote innovative research.
Speaking at the ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Dr Shehenaz said Foreign Minister Dr Khaleel’s participation reflects the government’s strong support for MNU’s initiatives to promote research and evidence-based knowledge.
Dr Shehenaz further said the Theveli Conference is a key indicator of MNU’s growing academic stature, and noted increasing participation from local and international researchers, university staff, and students each year.
"Research cannot be conducted in isolation, we must apply its evidence to bring about real progress in our living environment and national development. This year's conference, for the first time, has introduced a 'student symposium' exclusively for MNU students," she said.
The Vice-Chancellor added that the initiative is intended to encourage young researchers to engage with research from an early age, ask questions, and share their findings.
This year, MNU received a total of 237 paper submissions, of which 198 were accepted. This figure is 31 studies more than last year, according to MNU.