The National Art Gallery's doors will close today on Dhivehi Dhathuru, the groundbreaking exhibition chronicling the Maldives' 45-year partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) that helped lift the nation from poverty.

Through photographs, artefacts, and interactive displays, the exhibition delves into the story of how international cooperation transformed one of the world's most vulnerable island nations into a middle-income success story.

The exhibition commemorates the UNDP's long-standing commitment to supporting the development of the Maldives, which began in 1978, when the country was one of the poorest and most vulnerable in the world.

At that time, the Maldives faced severe challenges. Access to safe drinking water and proper nutrition was scarce, and health and sanitation were pressing concerns, especially in the aftermath of a cholera epidemic that affected one in twelve people. One of the first major initiatives by the UNDP was the introduction of a motorboat called Sul'ha, which helped reach remote island communities that were otherwise isolated.

In the 1960s and 1970s, the Maldives relied heavily on dried, smoked, and salted fish as its primary export. During a short-lived fish crisis, the UNDP played a pivotal role by launching a project to purchase motorboats and train local fishermen. This initiative introduced the first marine diesel engines, revolutionising the traditional fishing industry.

Fast forward to today, and the UNDP continues to invest in the nation's transportation sector, focusing on sustainability. The introduction of electric vehicles for waste management, provided to the Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO), marked a significant step towards greener, more efficient practices. In addition, the UNDP is backing the innovative Agri-boat project, which features solar-powered cold storage units to reduce post-harvest losses and improve delivery speed.

Education has also been a major focus for the UNDP in the Maldives. In 1980, the country began its efforts to standardise its schooling system with the help of the UNDP, culminating in the establishment of the first unified primary schools in 1983, offering a single curriculum for all students across the nation.

Over the years, the UNDP has assisted the Maldives in various census efforts, enabling better planning and development strategies. Their flagship poverty reduction programme has also empowered local communities, offering training for community-based organisations, youth groups, and women's groups, promoting decentralisation and inclusive development.

UNDP has also been a steadfast partner in the Maldives' democratic journey. In 2004, when the government embarked on reform efforts, the UNDP brought in constitutional experts to assist in drafting the country's new democratic constitution, which was ratified in 2008. The UNDP's involvement continued with the establishment of key independent bodies, such as the Elections Commission, Supreme Court, and the Anti-Corruption Commission.

When disaster struck, the UNDP was there to assist. Following the devastation of the 2004 tsunami, UNDP played a central role in shelter rehabilitation efforts, helping the country rebuild. Similarly, during the Covid-19 pandemic, the UNDP was instrumental in assessing the impact on SMEs and self-employed individuals, developing strategies to mitigate rising unemployment, and supporting the national health response.

Through every challenge and change, the UNDP has stood by the Maldives, contributing significantly to its growth, resilience, and development. As the exhibition demonstrates, the partnership continues to evolve, always focused on sustainable progress for future generations.

The National Art Gallery will remain open until 6 p.m. today, offering a final opportunity for visitors to explore this comprehensive chronicle of Maldivian resilience and progress. Exhibition organisers expect high attendance as residents and tourists alike take their last chance to witness this powerful testament to international cooperation and national development.