Maldives National University has entered into a strategic partnership with Dhiraagu to strengthen student innovation and entrepreneurship through the initiative now branded as MNU InnovateHub Powered by Dhiraagu.
The partnership was formalised during a ceremony held at the university, marking a step in ongoing efforts to support youth-led innovation and expand the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Maldives. Through the agreement, the existing MNU InnovateHub programme will operate under its new name, reflecting Dhiraagu’s role as a strategic partner.
MNU InnovateHub is designed to help students develop innovative ideas into practical and scalable solutions. The university-run incubator focuses on capacity building, mentorship, ideation, validation, and early-stage venture development. The programme also aligns with national development priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, linking student innovation with broader sustainability objectives.
As part of the partnership, Dhiraagu will provide both financial and in-kind support to the programme. This includes mentorship contributions, participation as judges at pitch events, and the provision of high-speed fibre internet connectivity to the incubator space to support students throughout the incubation process.
The collaboration reflects Dhiraagu’s continued involvement in initiatives aimed at youth empowerment, digital innovation, and entrepreneurship. By supporting university-based incubation, the partnership seeks to contribute to the development of future-ready talent while strengthening links between academia and industry.
According to the partners, the initiative highlights the role of university–industry collaboration in creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs and supporting the growth of the Maldives’ innovation landscape, with a focus on solutions that contribute to economic and social progress.
