Digitalization Equipment Handed Over to Support Maldives Polytechnic’s E-learning Stations

With the generous endowment of the Government of Japan, digitalization equipment was provided today to Maldives Polytechnic through the Ministry of Higher Education by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in the Maldives. 

In an effort to assist the Government of Maldives to accelerate the provision of educational services in a decentralized and effective manner, The Equipment consisting of computer systems, webcams, microphones, and a host of supporting software, will go towards establishing e-learning stations in Maldives Polytechnic’s regional campuses in Gaafu Alif Gahdhoo and Seenu Hithadhoo, as well as additional online set-ups in the Male’ Campus - helping over 900 students access uninterrupted technical and vocational education and enhance their studying experience through the COVID-19 crisis and beyond. 
 
“The equipment donated by UNDP will enhance the Maldives Polytechnic’s capability to reach out to students across the Maldives and ensure they have a valuable learning experience, especially in difficult situations like the current COVID-19 pandemic. Through an online learning mechanism, we will be able to provide accessibility to many youths in rural areas and assist them to find decent jobs via skill training. This small yet big assist will make the Maldives more resilient and better prepared for future shocks and such crises,” highlighted Ahmed Nasir, Chief Executive Officer of Maldives Polytechnic. 
 
Aiming to build a qualified, skilled workforce and boost the technical and vocational industry in the country. Leading technical and vocational education provider; Maldives Polytechnic, takes the necessary measures in accordance to the onset of the pandemic and the disruption to service provision of educational establishments, Maldives Polytechnic shifted from physical to virtual classes, resulting in an increase in demand for online education, and adding strain on existing resources. 

 
UNDP acknowledged the efforts of the Government of Maldives and service institutes to embrace existing and emerging digital technology and accelerate the provision of services in a decentralized and effective manner, and reiterated commitment to work with partners towards inclusion, equity, and opportunities. 

Addressing the challenges faced by Maldives Polytechnic, UNDP Maldives extended support to the Institute via the Ministry of Higher Education, as part of a project supported by the Government of Japan to build social cohesion in the Maldives. The initiative focuses on building capacities of government institutions to provide decentralized and equitable access to enhanced educational services, increasing opportunities and the wellbeing of students across the country. The nexus of today’s partnership places emphasis on strengthening the foundations for resilient technical and vocational education systems in times of crisis, and the opportunities that digitalization can provide towards building the sustainable society of the future.