First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has underscored the importance of accessible healthcare, describing it as a fundamental pillar of social equality and sustainable national development.
She made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 3rd International Joint Conference for Healthcare Professionals 2026, which has brought together healthcare professionals from the Maldives and nine other countries to discuss developments and challenges in the medical sector.
Addressing participants, the First Lady said healthcare extends far beyond the delivery of public services, stressing that equitable access to quality healthcare is essential for building a fair and inclusive society.
She noted that conferences of this nature provide an important opportunity for professionals from different medical disciplines to exchange knowledge, share research and engage in meaningful discussions on issues affecting the healthcare sector.
According to the First Lady, the value of such gatherings lies not only in advancing medical science but also in contributing to the long-term health and wellbeing of communities. She said a country’s progress depends on the health of its people, making continued investment in healthcare a national priority.
Highlighting the collaborative nature of patient care, Sajidha said every successful treatment outcome reflects the dedication and coordinated efforts of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals working together throughout a patient’s recovery.
She also pointed to the rapid pace of innovation in healthcare globally, noting that the Maldives is working to adopt modern technologies and improve healthcare services in line with international developments.
“For an archipelagic nation like the Maldives, healthcare is not a luxury but an essential service that must be accessible to everyone,” she said, adding that the country continues to invest in healthcare infrastructure, workforce development and the expansion of modern medical services.
The First Lady also paid tribute to nurses, describing them as some of the closest companions to patients and their families during treatment. She praised their commitment and the vital role they play in delivering compassionate care across the country’s healthcare system.
Concluding her address, Sajidha encouraged participants to use the conference as a platform to identify practical solutions tailored to the Maldivian context, expressing hope that discussions and research presented during the event would contribute to strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
The International Joint Conference for Healthcare Professionals is held to promote collaboration among healthcare practitioners, encourage the exchange of medical knowledge and explore innovative approaches to improving patient care and healthcare delivery.
