Villa College actively collaborates with various institutions, including government bodies, NGOs, and professional councils, to encourage women to pursue studies and careers in fields where they are underrepresented.
Encouraging Women in Engineering: “Engineering Careers for Women” Webinar
To actively address and encourage greater female participation in fields where women are traditionally underrepresented, Villa College's Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET) organized a dedicated webinar titled “Engineering Careers for Women.” Scheduled for December 31, 2023, from 4:00-5:00 pm Maldives time, this virtual event provided a unique platform for prospective women students interested in engineering to connect with industry experts, gain insights into the field, and explore both the challenges and exciting opportunities awaiting women in engineering careers.
This initiative emerged as a targeted response to Villa College’s internal tracking and reporting, which revealed lower enrollment rates among female students in engineering programs compared to other disciplines. The FET team, committed to bridging this gender gap, structured the webinar to address the concerns and queries of women contemplating careers in engineering. During the session, leading female engineers and industry experts shared their personal journeys, discussed the obstacles they have overcome, and highlighted the valuable contributions women bring to the field.
Through this outreach effort, Villa College aimed to inspire, guide, and support young women across the Maldives in pursuing engineering degrees, fostering a more balanced representation within the field. By connecting students directly with mentors and role models, the “Engineering Careers for Women” webinar aligned with Villa College's commitment to advancing gender equality (SDG 5) and empowering women to pursue their ambitions in sectors where they are currently underrepresented.
Hands-On Demo Class to Encourage Women in Electrical Engineering
To promote interest and increase female participation in Electrical Engineering—a field where women are often underrepresented—Villa College organized a free demo class on August 13, 2023, at the QI Campus. This session provided a valuable opportunity for prospective students, particularly women, to experience the discipline firsthand, engage directly with experienced lecturers, and gain practical insights into Electrical Engineering. By opening this class to the public, Villa College aimed to inspire women to consider engineering as a viable academic and career pathway, offering them a supportive, hands-on introduction to the field.
Villa College Faculty of Engineering and Technology at the 2023 SDG Fair:
On November 5, 2023, Villa College’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET) participated in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Fair, an initiative led by the Scout Association to promote clean energy and infrastructure innovation, aligning with SDGs 7 and 9. Students and staff from FET showcased projects centered on clean energy and industry innovation, emphasizing the role of higher education in tackling global sustainability challenges. This collaboration with the Scout Association highlighted Villa College's commitment to sustainable development through community partnerships. The projects presented at the fair reflected Villa College’s dedication to fostering innovative, impactful solutions in support of the UN’s SDG agenda. Through active community engagement, Villa College reinforces its vision of a sustainable future, inspiring students to contribute meaningfully to society.
Encouraging Women in Law: “Women in Law Forum”
Villa College, in partnership with the Bar Council of the Maldives, hosted the “Women in Law Forum” to support female representation in the legal profession, aligning with SDG 5 on gender equality. The event centered around the theme "Invest in Women – Accelerate Progress" and featured sessions with established legal professionals, discussing the critical role of women in national development and the barriers they face. Panelists, including trailblazing figures like Uza. Mariya Ahmed Didi, shared strategies for overcoming biases and empowering women in law. A unique podcast segment, “The Future of the Law,” provided mentorship insights for aspiring female lawyers, fostering dialogue and support. This initiative reflects Villa College's commitment to encouraging women in underrepresented fields, specifically law, through collaboration and community engagement.
These initiatives highlight Villa College’s commitment to gender equity, creating inclusive educational opportunities, and broadening career options for women in traditionally male-dominated professions.