In a landmark event, the Maldives National University hosted a historic ceremony yesterday to officially transfer 80,000 square feet of land to the Thoddoo Council Office in North Ari Atoll.

This acquisition will serve as the foundation for the establishment of a dedicated Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, aimed at boosting the nation’s agriculture sector and providing new educational opportunities.

The event, held at the Central Administration of the Maldives National University, was attended by high-profile officials, including the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare and senior officials from Thoddoo Council. The handover was celebrated as a significant step toward enhancing agricultural education and securing the country’s food supply.

The new faculty will feature several specialized departments, including:

• Department of Horticulture

• Department of Plant Protection

• Department of Soil and Water Management

• Department of Food Sciences and Technology

Each department will be equipped with advanced laboratories and state of the art facilities to support research and provide practical training for students. According to the university, the new infrastructure will ensure students receive hands on experience with the latest agricultural innovations and technologies, preparing skilled professionals to elevate the Maldives’ agriculture sector to international standards.

This project reflects a campaign promise by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to advance higher education in agriculture, and the swift implementation has been welcomed by local communities and government officials alike. The faculty is not only seen as a major step toward self-sufficiency but also as an opportunity to enhance productivity and research capacity within the Maldives.

MNU expressed deep gratitude to the Thoddoo Council and the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare for their assistance in realizing this important initiative. The faculty is expected to be a vital force in training the next generation of agricultural experts, driving growth, and positioning the Maldives as a competitive player in the global agricultural landscape.