Panel Discussion 3 -Opening Remarks by Dr. Aishath Waheeda, Deputy Vice- Chancellor - Academic Affairs, Islamic University of Maldives

Today, we come together with a shared understanding that what we build today will shape the Maldives of tomorrow.

Bismillahirahmanirahim

Distinguished guests, colleagues, development partners, educators, community leaders, and especially the young people joining us today.

Assalaamalaikum Wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakaathu!

It is an honour and a privilege to open this important discussion on "Building Futures: Securing Child Rights and Responding to Adolescent Challenges."

Today, we come together with a shared understanding that what we build today will shape the Maldives of tomorrow. Our nation is youthful-rich in talent, energy, and aspiration. Yet we also find ourselves navigating rapid social, technological, and environmental change. These shifts affect the everyday realities of our children and adolescents-their safety, their learning, their wellbeing, and their pathways toward adulthood.

Of course, we have made important progress in education, child protection, and youth participation. But we also recognise that significant gaps remain. Some children still struggle to access quality services. Some adolescents face instability, pressure, or limited support. Others encounter complex risks-from digital exposure and mental health challenges to substance misuse or contact with the justice system.

These issues are deeply interconnected. A child who lacks a supportive school environment may fall behind. An adolescent coping with family difficulties may be more vulnerable to harmful behaviours. A young person who feels unseen may disengage from learning, work, or community life. Addressing these challenges requires not isolated efforts but strong, coordinated systems built today to protect tomorrow.

In my work in education and research, I have met young people whose lives changed because someone listened, because a school offered a second chance, or because a community chose inclusion over judgement. Unfortunately, I have also seen the consequences when systems fail to respond in time.

This is why today's conversation is so vital. It allows us to examine the policies, supports, and partnerships needed to ensure every child grows up safe, included, and empowered. It is a moment to recommit to building today for tomorrow, strengthening the foundations that will carry the next generation forward.

As we begin, I invite us to keep three principles in mind: centre children, invest in adolescence, and collaborate across systems. Together, these guide us toward a Maldives where every young person can thrive.

With that, I am pleased to officially open today's session.

And I thank UN Maldives for collaborating with the Islamic University of Maldives, and for your continued commitment to supporting our youth and strengthening our national systems.

Thank you.