Villa College actively participated in international collaboration for gathering and measuring data related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through its involvement in various research initiatives and partnerships with global organizations, Villa College has contributed to the collection, analysis, and reporting of data that supports the monitoring of SDG progress. Notably, Villa College played a key role in studies addressing education, mental health, gender equality, and environmental sustainability, which are directly linked to multiple SDGs.
IFJ research on levels of Maldivian public trust in media:
Villa College, through its Institute for Research and Innovation (IRI), partnered with the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) in Australia to contribute to the global efforts in gathering and measuring data for SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). The collaboration focused on assessing public trust in media, an essential aspect of building accountable and transparent institutions. This partnership involved conducting surveys and distributing questionnaires, which collected data over a three-month period. The results of the study provided valuable insights into media operations and public perception, aligning with SDG 16's goal of promoting peace, justice, and effective institutions. The Maldives Journalist Association also played a key role in supporting the project, ensuring local engagement and data relevance.
National Survey of The Republic of Maldives | Nov-Dec 2023
Villa College’s Institute for Research and Innovation (IRI) collaborated with the International Republican Institute (IRI) to support international efforts in data collection and measurement for SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Over a three-month period, this collaboration focused on the National Perception Survey of the Maldives, which assessed public attitudes towards decentralization, government institutions, political parties, and the electoral system. The survey utilized various data-gathering methodologies, including surveys and questionnaires, to gather comprehensive insights into public trust and engagement with democratic processes. This initiative contributed valuable data that helps monitor progress on SDG 16, supporting the development of policies and strategies for strengthening institutions and promoting justice. The project was conducted in partnership with IRI’s Maldives office, ensuring alignment with local and international goals.
A Multi-modal Approach to Teacher Professional Development (MATPD) - Landscape Mapping Study
Villa College, in collaboration with the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (India) and the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan, successfully launched the Landscape Mapping Study (LMS) Report as part of the IDRC-funded project, "A Multi-modal Approach to Teacher Professional Development (MATPD)" in low-resource settings. This study, which focused on teacher education and professional development (TPD) in Afghanistan, Maldives, and Nepal, aimed to assess current policies and practices in these countries. The findings from the LMS, which were presented at a ceremony on March 13, 2023, provide critical data on TPD models, including mentoring, action research, and ICT integration. The report and accompanying policy brief emphasize SDG Goal 4 (Quality Education) and SDG Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by offering insights for improving teacher development strategies in the Maldives and regionally. The collaboration with international stakeholders exemplifies Villa College’s role in contributing to global efforts in SDG data collection and measurement for education policy development.
The South Asian Teacher Educators (SATE) Fellowship, held on May 22, 2023, marked the completion of a fellowship program involving teacher educators from Afghanistan, Maldives, and Nepal. This initiative is part of the IDRC-funded project "A Multi-Modal Approach for Teacher Professional Development (MATPD) in Low Resource Settings," led by Villa College. Throughout the fellowship, educators participated in training sessions, webinars, and conducted action research on topics like inclusive education, Math, science, and peace education. The fellowship aimed to build reflective practices and foster a research culture among teachers and educators. The program’s collaborative nature and its focus on teacher professional development contribute to the collection of valuable data and insights aligned with SDG Goal 4 (Quality Education) by addressing regional educational challenges and strengthening teacher capacity through international partnerships.
By engaging in these international collaborations, the college not only contributes valuable data but also helps shape evidence-based policies that drive SDG achievement at both national and global levels. This involvement underscores Villa College's commitment to supporting the global effort in tracking and measuring progress towards the SDGs.