Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and MNU Launch Marine Foundational Course to Empower Future Ocean Stewards

News

In a landmark initiative for marine education and conservation, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and the Maldives National University (MNU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a new Marine Foundational Course Programme.

The signing ceremony was held at the MNU Central Administration in Malé, with Vice-Chancellor Dr. Aishath Shehenaz Adam representing MNU and Elias Pertoft, General Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, representing the resort. The agreement marks a significant step toward advancing marine conservation education and empowering communities in the Maldives.

Pioneering Marine Science OpportunitiesThe fully funded programme is designed to provide Maldivian youth with both academic and hands-on experience in key areas such as marine biology, coral restoration, data collection, and data analysis.

Students will complete theoretical modules at MNU before engaging in weekly practical sessions at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s Marine Lab—the Maldives’ first resort-based conservation centre, established in 2004.

“Today, we proudly sign this Memorandum of Understanding with the Maldives National University for our Marine Foundational Course — a partnership rooted in shared purpose,” said Elias Pertoft, General Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “We look forward to empowering outstanding Maldivian youth with hands-on conservation activities and a clear pathway into marine science. As we celebrate 30 years of sustainable hospitality, we remain deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of ocean stewards.”

A Blueprint for SustainabilityHighlighting the significance of the initiative, Dr. Ahmed Riyaz Jauharee, Dean of the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences at MNU, described the partnership as “a perfect synergy of knowledge, action, and stewardship.”

“Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru brings a real-world platform for applied science, a model of responsible tourism, and a deep connection to the community and its environment. And Maldives National University brings the next generation. We bring curious minds, eager researchers, and the academic rigor to turn field observations into lasting knowledge,” he said.

He added that the collaboration is more than an agreement, calling it “an investment in our nation’s future environmental leaders — a vibrant cycle of learning and impact.”

Celebrating 30 Years of Sustainable HospitalityThe launch of the Marine Foundational Course coincides with Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s 30th anniversary in 2025, reflecting the resort’s long-standing ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People.” The programme is expected to bridge education, conservation, and community engagement, contributing to a more sustainable future for the Maldives.