President: We envision a Maldives where every policy decision is evidence-based

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu says he envisions a Maldives where every policy decision is evidence-based, adding that his administration is committed to increasing investment in research and development in order to achieve that goal.

He made the remarks on Monday morning at the inauguration of the Theveli Conference 2024 – an annual research conference organized by the Maldives National University (MNU).

Addressing the conference, President Muizzu highlighted on the crucial role research plays in driving human progress.

“Looking ahead, our vision is clear: a future where research and innovation are central to our nation’s progress,” he said.

 “We envision a Maldives where every policy decision is evidence-based, and where every challenge is met with a solution grounded in expert knowledge.”

President Muizzu said that creating a robust research ecosystem is not a task for the government alone, but requires the active participation of all stakeholders, including academic institutions, the private sector, and international partners.

“As we increase our investment in research, we also aim to create partnerships that will allow us to leverage global expertise and resources, ensuring that the research conducted in the Maldives is of the highest international standard,” he said.

He announced plans to launch several key projects in the coming months, critical areas such as agriculture and fisheries, climate adaptation, public health, and sustainable tourism—all of which he stressed are essential to Maldives’ national well-being.

“Together, we can make the Maldives a hub of research excellence, where ideas flourish, knowledge is shared, and solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges are found,” he said.

President Muizzu said that research is not just for academics and policymakers—it’s for everyone.

He encouraged every citizen to value and support research, to ask questions, seek knowledge, and be active participants in the country’s journey toward progress.

“The decisions we make today, based on rigorous research and evidence, will determine the future we build, not just for our children, but their children and grandchildren,” he said. “Together, we can ensure that the Maldives continues to grow, innovate, and prosper in a constantly changing world.”

Launched by the MNU in 2017 – the Theveli Conference seeks to promote research, discuss various global researches, exchange ideas, build an international research network, and boost the national university’s visibility.

This year's theme is ‘Bridging Boundaries: Exploring Synergies Across Research Disciplines’.