MNU, Agri Ministry sign MoU enhancing research, training

Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare and Maldives National University (MNU) have signed on a agreement towards conducting agricultural research and preparatory works for tertiary education in agriculture and farming.

MNU Vice Chancellor Dr. Aishath Shehenaz and Minister Dr. Aisthath Rameela on behalf of the state signed on the agreement.

While speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Rameela underscored the core objectives of the agreement, which included increasing research familiarity and enhance training opportunities for interested people.

She highlighted the lack of regularly updated statistics at the ministry that hindered its operational efforts – especially since the ministry recently is carrying out several important tasks – and said the lack of research in relevant areas related to the ministry’s works.

The lack of research also hindered opportunities to seek funding for various initiatives and training programs, the minister added.

“I dishearteningly highlight that oftentimes we lack the baseline understanding when we reach to the signing phase on multilateral agreements and conventions with foreign organizations,” the minister said.

She emphasized the need to analyze damages to the soil from using pesticides in farming, and land conditions in agricultural practices. She also stressed the importance of elevating confidence among the next generations towards technological integration in farming.

While speaking at the ceremony, the MNU Vice Chancellor said the university intends to educate, train and open new opportunities for youths towards economic growth.

Dr. Shehenaz further expressed optimism of positive growth in the agricultural center through research and training programs.

Meanwhile, Minister of Education Dr. Mariyam Mariya has promised drafting specific policies related to agricultural education and training for Maldivian locals.