The International Conference on Social Research & Innovation (ICSRI 2025) opened today at Villa College, gathering academics, researchers, policymakers, students, and industry leaders under the theme “Synergies of Discovery: Igniting Solutions for the Future.”
The two-day event marks the ninth edition of the conference, which has become a cornerstone in the Maldives’ academic calendar and a growing platform for international dialogue. With over 100 submissions reviewed, the conference accepted 82 abstracts and is hosting 75 paper presentations across a diverse range of disciplines.
A Platform Built on Research Foundations
In his opening address, Dr. Adil, Conference Chair, traced the journey of the conference to the establishment of Villa College’s Institute for Research and Innovation—the first dedicated research body in the Maldivian higher education sector. He reflected on how early symposiums among postgraduate students and staff had grown into today’s international gathering.
“The core of the conference is your papers. Without your commitment, ICSRI would not exist.” — Dr. Adil
Villa College Rector: A Call to Collaboration
Dr. Anwar, Rector of Villa College, welcomed participants with an emphasis on the role of ICSRI as a bridge between local and global conversations. “This event has become an increasingly important platform for young students, academics, researchers, and practitioners,” he said.
Dr. Anwar encouraged participants to immerse themselves fully in the conference, stressing that ICSRI is “both a first step into research and a way to expand contributions to society.”
“Let us explore how we can offer solutions for the future through knowledge and collaboration.” — Dr. Anwar
An International Perspective: Australia’s Commitment
Mr. David Jessup, High Commissioner of Australia to the Maldives, praised Villa College for curating a timely and forward-looking program. He noted that global challenges such as climate change, digital disruption, and social inequality demand “multifaceted responses,” and highlighted the role of informed research in shaping solutions.
He also reaffirmed Australia’s strong partnership with the Maldives, pointing to nearly 750 Maldivians who studied in Australia under the Australia Awards Scholarship Program, many of whom now serve in leadership roles. He commended ICSRI’s focus on youth and underlined that research should be seen “not just as an academic pursuit but as a tool for shaping communities and engaging with the world.”
“Research is not just about generating knowledge. It’s about creating synergies that lead to real-world impact.” — Mr. David Jessup
Keynotes, Panels, and Impact
This year’s ICSRI features three distinguished international keynote speakers:
- Dr. Ahmed Mohamed, on reshaping education and skill systems for 2030.
- Professor from Asia Pacific University, on entrepreneurship and equity.
- Scholar from the National University of Singapore, on island dynamics and coastal adaptation.
Alongside paper presentations, the conference introduces Impact Rooms, designed to encourage open dialogue with policymakers, scholars, and practitioners. Panel discussions will focus on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), tackling themes such as health resilience, youth empowerment, governance, and education in the age of artificial intelligence.
Awards for Best Paper and Best Presentation will also be conferred, with recognition for both early-career and experienced researchers. Selected outstanding papers will be recommended for publication in Scopus-indexed journals, strengthening the international visibility of Maldivian research.
Gratitude and Partnerships
The conference is supported by a wide network of sponsors and partners, ranging from government ministries and development authorities to academic institutions, civil society organizations, and media collaborators. Both Dr. Adil and Dr. Anwar expressed their gratitude to the reviewers, moderators, and volunteers who made the event possible.
ICSRI 2025 continues until 11 September, showcasing the Maldives as both a host and contributor to the global pursuit of knowledge, innovation, and sustainable solutions.
Smile and Let Smile 