First Lady Sajidha Mohamed attended a special debate held Tuesday evening to mark International Nurses Day, where participants examined whether the nursing profession in the Maldives provides sufficient opportunities for career advancement.
The event, jointly organised by the Community Nurse Volunteers and the Maldives Oncology Nurse Association, was held at the Faculty of Health Sciences of the Maldives National University.
The debate centred on the motion that the nursing field in the Maldives offers adequate pathways for professional growth. Two teams presented opposing arguments, with one side defending the current system while the other highlighted gaps in career progression and development opportunities.
The session brought together healthcare professionals, academics and nursing practitioners, fostering a broad discussion on the state of the profession and its future direction.
Upon arrival, the First Lady was received by Community Nurse Volunteers President Mariyam Niyan and Maldives Oncology Nurse Association President Aminath Zeeniya.
Participants explored both the progress made in the sector and the challenges that continue to affect nurses, including access to specialised training, career mobility and recognition within the healthcare system.
Observed annually on 12 May, International Nurses Day honours the contributions of nurses to healthcare systems worldwide.
The debate served as a platform to reflect on the evolving role of nurses in the Maldives, while encouraging dialogue on how to strengthen the profession and expand opportunities for those working on the frontlines of patient care.
