In a transformative step forward for marine education and conservation, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and the Maldives National University (MNU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch a brand-new Marine Foundational Course Programme.

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The signing ceremony, held at the MNU Central Administration in Malé, represented by Ph.D., Vice-Chancellor Aishath Shehenaz Adam from MNU and Elias Pertoft, General Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, marks a key milestone in advancing marine conservation education, and community empowerment in the Maldives.

Pioneering a Pathway into Marine Science 
The fully funded programme offers Maldivian youth an opportunity to gain foundational academic and hands-on experience in marine biology, coral restoration, data collection and data analysis, and more.

Students will complete theory modules at MNU and participate in weekly practical sessions at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s Our Marine Lab, the first resort-based conservation centre in the Maldives, established since 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 — protecting our fragile ecosystems through education.”

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A Blueprint for a Sustainable Future 
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Ahmed Riyaz Jauharee (PhD), Dean of the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences at MNU, underscored the significance of the partnership:

“This Memorandum of Understanding represents 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.”

“This collaboration is more than an agreement. It is an investment in our nation’s future environmental leaders, a vibrant cycle of learning and impact. When academia, non-profits, and forward-thinking businesses align their purpose, extraordinary things are possible.”

Celebrating 30 Years of Sustainable Hospitality 
The programme is part of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s 30th anniversary celebrations in 2025. This MOU affirms the Banyan Tree’s longstanding ethos: “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” — bringing together education, conservation, and community impact for a greener, bluer future.

Read more of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s sustainability effort.

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