Villa College and UNICEF Host Parenting Symposium Focused on Early Childhood Development

Villa College, in collaboration with UNICEF, hosted the “Parenting Symposium 2026” at Villa College yesterday, bringing together experts, students and practitioners to discuss child-rearing and early childhood development.

Organised by students from Villa College’s Master of Clinical Psychology and Master of Counselling programmes, the symposium was held under the theme “Early Years Matter: Supporting Parents Through Integrated Systems.” The event focused on strengthening coordination between health, education and social services to support parents through an integrated approach.

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Dr Edward Addai, UNICEF Representative to the Maldives, opened the ceremony and highlighted the importance of early childhood in shaping lifelong health, learning and wellbeing. He stated that supporting children begins with supporting parents and stressed that coordinated services across sectors can ensure stronger outcomes for families.

Villa College Vice Rector Dr Ali Najeeb said the institution aims to ensure education extends beyond the classroom and benefits society directly. He praised the students for designing and delivering the symposium and said practical, community-focused approaches are essential in addressing challenges faced by Maldivian families. He added that parents should not face these responsibilities alone and affirmed the college’s continued support.

A panel discussion, moderated by Villa College student Aishath Shaiba Kinanath, brought together professionals from education, health and social sectors. Panellists included representatives from the Ministry of Education, Aminiya School, Hulhumalé Hospital and UNICEF, alongside Villa College.

The discussion focused on the importance of an integrated system for early childhood development rather than fragmented institutional approaches. Panellists also discussed challenges families face in accessing services and the psychological impact of these barriers on parents.

Speakers emphasised that the first five years of life are critical for brain and cognitive development, and stressed the importance of early identification of developmental delays. They also highlighted the need to distinguish between delays linked to environmental factors and other developmental conditions, noting that early intervention can reduce long-term impacts.

The symposium also featured student research presentations on issues relevant to Maldivian society, alongside practical workshops on positive parenting, parental self-care, emotional development in children and identifying developmental milestones. A dedicated play area was also arranged for children attending with their parents.

Organisers said the symposium marked a step towards strengthening coordinated support systems for parents and children, and Villa College said it remains committed to promoting evidence-based, community-focused initiatives through academic engagement and research.