Villa College recently reinforced its commitment to national capacity building by hosting an intensive Research Training Workshop tailored for the staff and Committee Research Officers of the People's Majlis. Organised by the Faculty of Shariah and Law, this full-day programme provided parliamentary professionals with advanced analytical tools necessary for structuring and executing policy-oriented research. The initiative serves as a cornerstone of the institution's broader mission to support government operations, ensuring that the legislative body possesses the rigorous methodological foundation required to navigate complex national policies. By directly engaging with the Parliament of the Maldives, the college demonstrates a proactive approach to strengthening the evidence base of the nation's governance structures.
Translating academic theory into practical legislative action requires highly specialised methodologies. During the workshop, participants explored the critical differences between broad academic literature reviews and targeted desk reviews, gaining a nuanced understanding of techniques specifically adapted for tabled policy research and parliamentary inquiries. Furthermore, the sessions emphasised empirical research in legal contexts, guiding officers on how to apply data-driven findings directly to the drafting and reviewing of laws. To contextualise these concepts, the programme featured an engaging rapid-fire group exercise. Rather than passively absorbing information, trainees were challenged to resolve real-world policy scenarios within a strict twenty-minute timeframe. This practical application allowed participants to demonstrate exceptional analytical capabilities, proving their readiness to deliver vital, evidence-based support to parliamentary committees.
Delivering such high-level training requires a collaborative approach grounded in rigorous academic leadership. The workshop was facilitated by a distinguished panel of academic researchers, comprising Dr Tajudeen Sani, Mr Amish Abdullah, Dr Shekaib Alam, Mr Mohd Arsh Shery, and Dr Nfor Nyambi. This multidisciplinary assembly provided a sophisticated depth of expertise, ensuring that the parliamentary staff received comprehensive instruction across various legal and research disciplines. By bringing together diverse scholarly perspectives, Villa College fosters a nurturing educational environment that empowers public servants. The direct interaction between these academic leaders and legislative officers bridges the gap between higher education and active governance, elevating the overall standard of parliamentary research.
Ultimately, equipping legislative staff with sophisticated analytical skills directly supports broader global and national objectives. This training initiative clearly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16, which advocates for peace, justice, and strong institutions. When parliamentary officers utilise high-quality research frameworks, the resulting legislative process becomes markedly more transparent and accountable. Conversely, policy development lacking rigorous empirical backing risks inefficiency and public misalignment. By ensuring that the laws governing the Maldives are built upon a foundation of transparent and precise data, Villa College plays an instrumental role in fortifying the country's democratic framework and promoting sustainable, long-term institutional integrity.
