Today marks a historic moment in the Maldives’ medical education, as the first batch of doctors trained entirely in the country has successfully graduated. Twenty-two new doctors received their certificates at the Maldives National University (MNU) Graduation Ceremony, held at Dharubaaruge, with the honors presented by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
A Milestone Achievement for MNU and Graduates
The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the pioneering batch, especially the four top-ranking graduates: Aminath Wafira, Asra Ismail, Ma'aanee Fathuhullah Ismail, and Yasra Ismail, who secured first place in their program. This group of graduates completed a five-year MBBS program, launched in 2018 in collaboration with Malaysia’s Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
Overcoming Challenges to Launch the First MBBS Program
Dr. Sheeza Ali, Dean of the MNU School of Medicine, acknowledged the hurdles that came with establishing the new MBBS program. "As this was the first MBBS course in the Maldives, we encountered numerous challenges," Dr. Sheeza explained. Despite these obstacles, she expressed immense pride in the dedication of both students and faculty, leading to an impressive success rate for the first batch.
The course curriculum blends theoretical education and hands-on clinical practice, with local and international doctors leading instruction. Theory classes are primarily held at MNU, while practical experience takes place at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital and ADK Hospital. This approach has enabled students to gain real-world exposure under the guidance of experienced professionals, further strengthening their medical skills.
What’s Next for the Graduates?
After a demanding five years of study and practical training, these 22 new doctors are now poised to contribute to the Maldives' healthcare sector. Many are expected to work in hospitals across the country, where their skills are urgently needed to address healthcare demands in various regions.
Each graduate sat for their final exams in July, with every student successfully passing. This exceptional result stands as a testament to the program's quality and the students' commitment. The second batch of MBBS students is currently in the process of taking their final exams, and their anticipated success will further strengthen the medical community in the Maldives.
A Step Forward for Healthcare in Maldives
Training doctors locally is a significant step forward for the Maldives, offering accessible education to future doctors and addressing the country’s need for skilled healthcare professionals. The partnership with UKM has enabled MNU to provide a world-class education that meets international standards while also catering to the unique healthcare needs of the Maldives.
By providing local training, the program also empowers students from all backgrounds to pursue medical careers without the financial and logistical challenges of studying abroad. The local approach promises to build a dedicated workforce familiar with the health landscape and challenges of the Maldives.
