Minister of Higher Education, Labour, and Skills Development, Dr Maryam Mariya, recently attended the opening of a new building at Villa College's Hithadhoo Campus (VHC).

The newly constructed facility boasts state-of-the-art amenities aimed at enhancing the learning experience for both students and faculty. The new building is expected to provide modern spaces conducive to teaching and learning, aligning with national efforts to create an environment that fosters academic excellence.

During her remarks at the inauguration ceremony, Dr Mariya emphasised the critical role of higher education in equipping graduates with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the modern workforce.

She stressed that students must leave educational institutions with a clear sense of their capabilities, prepared to meet the expectations of employers or pursue independent ventures with determination and talent.

The Minister commended Villa College for its contributions to education in Addu City and across the Maldives, acknowledging the institution’s longstanding commitment to developing human capital.

She also expressed gratitude to the private sector for its role in expanding higher education opportunities, which she noted had been instrumental in fostering academic and professional success for students nationwide.

The event was attended by notable figures, including Addu City Mayor Ali Nizar, Rector of Villa College Ahmed Anwar as well.

Villa College’s Hithadhoo Campus, located in Addu City, originally started it's operations in September 2015, as a learning centre before its transformation into a full-fledged campus. This expansion was necessitated by the increasing demand for higher education in the area.

Offering a range of programmes from certificate to master’s level, the campus primarily focuses on education and business disciplines. Its active learning environment attracts students not only from the city but also from nearby atolls, reflecting its regional significance.

The opening off the new campus building  at VHC emphasises the college's dedicated to advancing education and preparing a skilled workforce to meet future challenges.