Associate Professor Dr. Charles Vanover, the first Fulbright scholar to attend Villa College, was officially welcomed to the college in a formal ceremony. The event was attended by Deputy Chief of U.S. mission Anand Krishna, Public Affairs Officer Cheryl Neely, and Public Engagement Specialist Aminath Shizleen, representing the U.S. mission to the Maldives. In attendance were also Senior Under Secretary Hassan Hussain Shihab and Assistant Director Fathimath Zaina Abdulla Saeed from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representing the Department of Europe, Americas, and Oceania.

Dr. Aishath Nasheeda, Head of the School of Psychology at Villa College, then gave a speech introducing Professor Vanover and an overview of his planned work. Following this, Associate Professor Dr. Charles Vanover was welcomed by the Rector of Villa College, Dr. Ahmed Anwar, who also spoke about the ongoing efforts to establish a strong research culture at the institution.

Associate Professor Dr. Charles Vanover delivered a speech in which he emphasised the crucial role of research in advancing knowledge and innovation. He highlighted that the dissemination of research findings is equally important, as sharing insights and results fosters collective growth and development. He also expressed his gratitude to Vice Rector Dr. Ali Najeeb for the warm welcome he received.

The ceremony also marked the appointment of Dr. Charles Vanover as an Adjunct Associate Professor at Villa College. Vice Rector Dr. Ali Najeeb presented him with the certificate of appointment.

Associate Professor Dr. Charles Vanover, a Fulbright scholarship recipient from the US government, is the first individual to visit Villa College under this programme. Dr. Vanover will be at Villa College for the next four months, focusing on research, curriculum development, and pedagogy.