First Lady Says Investment in Healthcare Workers is Key to Neonatal Advances
She emphasized that every newborn in the Maldives deserves equal care, regardless of location or circumstance. | Photo: The President’s Office
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has called for increased investment in the training and continuous development of healthcare professionals to strengthen neonatal care across the Maldives, emphasizing that advances in medical technology must go hand in hand with investments in skilled personnel.
Speaking at the inauguration of NeoCare 2026—The Maldives Conference on Neonatal Care Excellence at Meerumaa this morning, Sajidha stressed that while specialized facilities and modern equipment are essential, healthcare professionals remain the core of effective treatment.
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“A machine can monitor a heartbeat, but it takes a trained healthcare professional to understand what that heartbeat is indicating,” she stated, adding that the effective use of a modern neonatal unit relies directly on skilled hands, sound judgment, and compassionate care.
The First Lady highlighted the importance of continuous training, specialized education, clinical mentorship, and professional development across the country. She emphasized that every newborn in the Maldives deserves the same standard of care regardless of their island or circumstances.
Addressing the delegates, she also launched the first NeoCare and NICU News Bulletin. She praised doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers for their expertise and dedication, whilst emphasizing the need for family-centred care that offers clear communication and dignity to parents during challenging periods.
Organised by Hulhumalé Hospital under the theme “Advancing Neonatal Care: From Knowledge to Practice through Innovation and Collaboration”, the three-day conference has brought together 50 participants from 19 healthcare facilities across the nation.
