The Maldives will host its first neonatal nurses conference this week, bringing together nursing professionals from across the country to address the shortage of specialised care for newborns.

The two-day conference, scheduled for 10–11 September 2025, will take place at Dharumavantha Hospital. Organised by the Malé City Group of Hospitals in collaboration with STO Healthcare, the event aims to strengthen neonatal nursing through evidence-based practices, academic exchange, and professional networking.

According to organisers, nurses working in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of regional hospitals will take part, with each hospital sending two representatives. The programme will feature expert-led sessions, simulation-based learning, and the presentation of five academic papers. Sessions will also cover diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as eye problems in premature babies, guided by paediatric and ophthalmology specialists.

The lack of trained neonatal nurses in the Maldives has long been a concern for health professionals. Currently, most premature infants are cared for by nurses relying on years of on-the-job experience rather than formal training. The conference seeks to bridge this gap by creating a structured platform for professional development.

Organisers added that the initiative will help establish a stronger network between NICU nurses in regional hospitals and those in Malé, allowing closer collaboration on issues related to premature births and newborn care.