Villa College actively engages a diverse array of stakeholders across its governance, strategic planning, quality assurance, and decision-making processes.
College Council
Central to this collaborative approach is the College Council—a strategic and inclusive body that includes the College Founder, appointed representatives, senior executive management, industry experts, and elected representatives from the academic, administrative, and student communities. With two industry representatives and one government representative, the Council ensures that the institution’s operations and programs are enriched by multiple perspectives, maintaining high standards that align closely with both academic and industry needs.
Faculty Advisory Committee (FAC)
Each faculty at Villa College is supported by a Faculty Advisory Committee (FAC) that brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, ensuring faculty operations closely align with industry demands, academic standards, and community needs. In 2023, the FACs across all faculties collectively included 60 members from various sectors: 4 alumni, 1 civil society representative, 6 government authorities, 17 industry partners, 3 local community leaders, 1 representative from partner universities, 3 from professional associations, and 5 students. These members provide essential insights into curriculum development, strategic planning, and quality assurance, contributing actively to program relevance and continuous improvement. Their expertise significantly enhances the student experience and strengthens Villa College’s ties with professional and community partners, broadening the institution’s impact.
The Faculty Advisory Committees are strengthened by senior-level government and industry members, bringing specialized knowledge and leadership to the institution. Government representatives on the FACs include senior officials such as Deputy Ministers, a Permanent Secretary, Commanding Officer, Customs Officer, and Inspection Officer, who offer perspectives on regulatory standards and public sector needs. Industry partners span a range of roles, including Architects, a Judge, Managers, Senior Engineers, a Quality Assurance Commissioner, and executives such as a President, Deputy Managing Director, Assistant General Manager, Consultant, and Chief Financial Officer. This wealth of expertise helps shape Villa College’s programs with real-world insights, fostering a curriculum that meets current professional and industry standards.
Some of the stakeholders Involvement in programme development and accreditation are listed below
Bar Council of the Maldives: The Bar Council of the Maldives has played a crucial role in the programme accreditation process for Villa College's law-related courses, including the Bachelor of Shariah and Law, Bachelor of Shariah and Law with Political Science, and Bachelor of Shariah and Law with International Relations. Their involvement ensures that the college's law programmes adhere to the national legal education standards, helping to shape a curriculum that prepares graduates for professional legal practice in the Maldives. The Council’s consultation ensures that the programmes align with the legal requirements and expectations for law practitioners in the country.
Maldives Allied Health Council: The Maldives Allied Health Council has been instrumental in accrediting the Bachelor of Counseling and Master of Clinical Psychology programmes at Villa College. Their consultation helps ensure that these programmes meet the high standards of health and psychology education required for practice in the Maldives. The involvement of the Council guarantees that the curriculum prepares students with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in the mental health sector, complying with national regulations and professional expectations in healthcare.
The Maldives Allied Health Council also played a significant role in the accreditation of Villa College’s Bachelor of Pharmacy programme. Their guidance ensures that the curriculum aligns with the professional standards required for pharmacists in the Maldives. The Council’s involvement helps ensure that students are well-prepared to meet the healthcare needs of the country and that the programme adheres to the legal and professional guidelines for the pharmacy profession.
Maldives Nursing and Midwifery Council: The Maldives Nursing and Midwifery Council has been actively involved in accrediting Villa College’s Diploma in Nursing programme. By providing their expertise, the Council ensures that the nursing curriculum meets the national educational standards for nursing practice in the Maldives. Their feedback is crucial in shaping a programme that equips students with the essential knowledge and practical skills to enter the nursing profession and deliver quality healthcare in the country.
Policy on Stakeholder Engagement Overview
In 2023, Villa College introduced and implemented a Policy on Stakeholder Engagement to affirm its commitment to effective collaboration with its diverse community of stakeholders. The policy outlines Villa College's dedication to maintaining strong connections with students, staff, alumni, employers, government agencies, and other essential partners. By establishing a structured approach, this policy ensures that the College remains responsive to the needs of its community, fostering a transparent and systematic framework for engagement. Recognizing that positive relationships with stakeholders are vital for operational success, diverse perspectives, and accountability, the policy emphasizes the importance of meaningful engagement. It supports the institution’s growth and reinforces sound decision-making processes, contributing to the college’s responsiveness and continuous improvement in alignment with community expectations.
Villa College’s robust approach to stakeholder engagement plays a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s academic and operational excellence. By actively involving a diverse range of stakeholders—from government bodies and industry professionals to academic staff and students—the college ensures its programmes are both relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the community. This inclusive approach not only fosters strong partnerships but also strengthens Villa College’s commitment to providing high-quality education that meets national and international standards. Through continued collaboration, the college delivers impactful and meaningful contributions to the academic, professional, and societal landscape.