Kurumba Maldives Resort, Maldives – 29 August 2024 – The Institute of Directors Maldives (IOD Maldives) launched its operations with the successful completion of the inaugural Maldives Governance Conference 2024. The event, held at Kurumba Maldives Resort, focused on the theme “Elevating Corporate Governance for a Prosperous Future.” The conference featured participation from international governance experts and local leaders, signaling a significant step forward in advancing corporate governance in the Maldives.
The Institute of Directors Maldives is an independent non-profit association dedicated to developing corporate governance skills and knowledge in the Maldives. The organization targets directors, advisors, young professionals, and academicians. At the conference, IOD Maldives announced the initiation of a benchmark study on the state of corporate governance in the country, which will gather insights from various sectors, including private, family-led, and small to medium enterprises.
The conference commenced with an opening address by Chief Guest Dr. Mahamood Shougee, Chancellor of the Maldives National University. Dr. Shougee outlined the vision for IOD Maldives, emphasizing the creation of a professional body of corporate directors focused on networking, learning, and enhancing governance. His address also referenced President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s call for collaboration among academia, researchers, policymakers, and the private sector to address national challenges.
A highlight of the event was the participation of Ms. Kirsten Patterson, Chair of the Global Network of Directors Institutes (GNDI). Patterson highlighted the global significance of IOD Maldives’ launch, noting that the organization joins a worldwide network of director institutes committed to promoting governance excellence. She emphasized that strong governance can significantly impact organizations, economies, and communities, and that IOD Maldives will contribute to building resilient businesses and institutions in the Maldives.
The conference featured sessions led by international governance experts, including Ms. Maali Q Khader, CEO of the Middle East Institute of Directors, and Mr. Paul Smith, a Board Futurist & Special Advisor to IOD Maldives. Topics covered included boardroom performance, the role of artificial intelligence in governance, and the importance of sustainability in corporate decision-making. Local stakeholders also participated in panel discussions that addressed the current state of governance in the Maldives and future opportunities for collaboration.
The Maldives Governance Conference was supported by strategic partners, sponsors, and event partners, who contributed to the success of this inaugural event. The conference marks the beginning of IOD Maldives’ efforts to become a central hub for governance knowledge and collaboration in the country, providing opportunities for directors and leaders to advance corporate governance practices in the Maldives.
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