Sixth Maldives Marine Science Symposium Begins with 47 Research Papers
The biennial symposium, organised by the Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI) in partnership with MNU, is being held from August 4 to 5 at MNU’s Central Auditorium.
The sixth Maldives Marine Science Symposium has begun at the Maldives National University (MNU), with 47 research papers on the country’s marine environment and resources set to be presented over two days.
The biennial symposium, organised by the Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI) in partnership with MNU, is being held from August 4 to 5 at MNU’s Central Auditorium.
advertisement
The 47 papers comprise 32 oral presentations and 15 poster presentations, covering five key thematic areas:
- Coral Reefs, Restoration and Climate Change
- Fisheries, Governance and Society
- Sea Turtle Ecology, Health and Conservation
- Sharks, Rays and Other Marine Megafauna
- Coastal Ecosystems and Seabirds
The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources said the symposium aims to share ongoing research and findings on the Maldives’ marine resources and ecosystems, facilitate knowledge exchange among researchers and practitioners, and advance marine science in the country.
Research conducted by universities and non-governmental organisations involved in marine research in the Maldives will also be presented at the symposium, which brings together local and international participants.
The ministry said the symposium is the only event of its kind in the Maldives dedicated to marine science and provides opportunities for people working in the field to collaborate and develop professional connections.
At the opening ceremony, Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Minister Ahmed Shiyam Mohamed encouraged participants to strengthen collaboration, build professional networks and contribute to developing Maldivian research capacity.
Shiyam also emphasised the importance of conducting marine scientific research in accordance with national regulations to ensure research is coordinated and responsible and contributes to a comprehensive body of knowledge.
The MMRI first hosted the Maldives Marine Science Symposium in 2016, with the event held every two years since then.
