Photo: Bangladesh High Commission, Maldives

DHAKA, Jan 25, 2025 (BSS) - Interest was expressed in introducing Bangla language courses at Maldives National University (MNU) as Bangladesh and the Maldives discussed expanding cooperation in higher education, research, training and cultural exchange.

The discussion took place during a meeting at the university in Malé, the capital city of the Maldives, between Bangladesh High Commissioner to the Maldives Dr. Md. Nazmul Islam and MNU Vice-Chancellor (VC) Dr. Aishath Shehnaz Adam, said a press release here today.
 
Pro-VCs, deans, heads of institutes and academic departments, along with senior management officials of MNU, were present at the meeting, reflecting the university's strong institutional interest in expanding academic cooperation with Bangladesh.

During the talks, the High Commissioner emphasised the need for signing memorandum of understandings (MoUs) between MNU and leading Bangladeshi universities, citing positive engagements with institutions including the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh University of Professionals and Bangladesh Maritime University.

He reaffirmed his commitment to completing the MoU processes at the earliest and assured full support from the Bangladesh High Commission, while both sides agreed to work closely to advance cooperation.

On behalf of MNU, the VC expressed interest in inviting short-term guest faculty from Bangladesh, arranging specialised training by Bangladeshi experts and expanding joint academic activities, noting wide scope for seminars, conferences and research across MNU's 21 affiliated higher education institutions.

She also highlighted studies conducted by MNU on challenges faced by expatriate workers and expressed interest in joint awareness initiatives, while proposing the introduction of Bangla language education to meet tourism sector needs and enhance cultural engagement.

Welcoming the initiatives, the High Commissioner reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to cooperation in education, research, training and cultural exchange, including joint seminars, international conferences, bilateral research, and faculty and student exchange programmes.