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Vice President Faisal Naseem Urges Synergy Between Science, Policy, and SDGs at Research Conference

South Asia Vice President Faisal Naseem Urges Synergy Between Science, Policy, and SDGs at Research Conference
MON, 19 JUN 2023 LISTEN

In a call to action at the closing ceremony of the International Conference on Social Research and Innovation (ICSRI), Vice President Faisal Naseem of the Maldives stressed the importance of aligning scientific research and policy development with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to drive meaningful progress. The annual event, organised by the Institute for Research and Innovation (IRI) of Villa College, promotes dialogue and networking among academics, researchers, and industry experts.

Addressing the conference theme "Breakthrough to Excellence: Achieving a Networked Community", Vice President Naseem advocated for international collaboration to tackle the pressing social challenges of today, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. The Vice President highlighted the crucial need for a culture that promotes the sharing of knowledge and expertise to innovate solutions for these complex issues.

The Vice President emphasised the particular vulnerability of the Maldives to climate change effects, with sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and coral bleaching presenting significant risks. Reaffirming the administration's commitment to addressing these challenges, he outlined measures to invest in renewable energy, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and bolster coastal protection.

Vice President Naseem also took the opportunity to shed light on several key initiatives undertaken by the administration. These include the Greater Malé Waste to Energy Project aimed at converting waste into electricity, efforts to elevate education and human capital development through free degree programmes, and the expansion of junior colleges and technical and vocational training centres across the nation.

Turning his attention to gender equality, Vice President Naseem discussed the administration’s Gender Equality Action Plan. The plan seeks to encourage equality across all sectors, including education, employment, and health, and represents a strategic alignment with the SDGs. Wrapping up his remarks, the Vice President urged the youth to take decisive action now to safeguard the planet and their future.

William Gomes
William Gomes

South Asia correspondent.
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