- The Sixth Maldives Marine Science Symposium 2026, a two-day event organised by MMRI and MNU, was inaugurated by Minister Ahmed Shiyam.
- Minister Shiyam stressed investing in marine research education, protecting the environment, safeguarding livelihoods, and conducting research within national regulations.
- Participants will present 47 research papers across five themes, comprising 32 oral and 15 poster presentations.
The Sixth Maldives Marine Science Symposium 2026 has officially commenced, marking a two-day event dedicated to advancing the sustainable management of the nation’s ocean resources.
Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam inaugurated the event, organised by the Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI) in partnership with the Maldives National University (MNU). Organisers initially established the symposium in 2016 to provide a central platform for experts to share and discuss marine studies, paving the way for better coordination within the field.
In his address, Minister Shiyam noted that the importance of scientific research has increased significantly compared to previous years. He emphasised that researchers must conduct marine studies to discover practical ways society and the economy can adapt to ongoing environmental changes. To secure a stable and positive future for upcoming generations, he stated that the nation needs to invest in marine research education, protect the natural environment, and safeguard the livelihoods that depend on these resources.
Furthermore, Minister Shiyam encouraged participants to strengthen professional collaborations, build new connections, and support the development of local research capacity. He highlighted the necessity of conducting all marine scientific research in strict adherence to national regulations. This compliance ensures that research remains well-coordinated, operates responsibly, and contributes effectively to a comprehensive body of knowledge.
Throughout the two-day event, participants will present a total of 47 research papers, which organisers have categorised into five distinct themes. These contributions consist of 32 oral presentations and 15 poster presentations, reflecting an ongoing commitment to advancing marine science and shaping the future of research in the Maldives.
