MNU Mahasama Learning Festival Empowers 300 Children Through Practical Skill-Building

The Maldives National University (MNU) has reported a strong response to its Mahasama Learning Festival, an initiative designed to engage children and families in education beyond the traditional classroom. Held during the school holidays, the free five-day event aims to foster technical skills, creativity, and a lifelong love for learning. Running from June 19 to June 23, the festival has seen significant demand from the community. Due to the event being hosted exclusively in Malé for this edition, participation was capped at approximately 300 children, despite a much larger volume of applicants expressing interest. The festival features a comprehensive curriculum led by MNU experts, spanning eight diverse thematic areas. These include scientific discoveries, robotics and new innovations, mathematics, and reading skills and time management. To ensure a holistic approach to development, the programme also incorporates sessions on mental health, Islamic ethics and manners, and the art of storytelling. Vice Chancellor Dr. Aishath Shehenaz emphasized that the festival's primary goal is to make learning an accessible and enjoyable experience. By shifting the focus toward practical application, the university hopes to encourage curiosity and build confidence among the youth. The programme is structured to cater to three distinct age groups: 9–12, 13–15, and 16–18. Through these tailored sessions, MNU aims to equip students with essential soft skills, including critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and complex problem-solving abilities, preparing them for challenges outside the academic sphere.