Panel Discussion 3: Responding Today for Tomorrow. Building Futures: Securing Child Rights and Responding to the Adolescent Challenge, Closing Remarks by Ms. Mariyam Midhfa Naeem, Joint Secretary for the

Excellencies,

Distinguished guests,

Students,

As we bring this discussion to a close, let me extend my sincere appreciation to our panelists for their thoughtful contributions, and to our partners at the United Nations, especially the Resident Coordinator’s Office and UNICEF, for their continued collaboration. Let me also extend a special thank you to our hosts today, the Islamic University of Maldives.

This year, as the Maldives celebrates 60 years of membership in the United Nations and the UN’s 80th anniversary, we are reminded of how far we have come together. Our achievements in child survival, education, and immunisation reflect the power of commitment, partnership, and long-term vision. But today’s conversation has also made clear that we now stand at a new crossroads, one defined not by early childhood challenges but by the complex realities facing our adolescents.

We have a young nation: one-third of our population is under 18. Yet too many young people are disengaging from education, facing mental-health pressures, or encountering risks that threaten their wellbeing and future potential. If left unaddressed, these challenges could erode the gains we have worked so hard to secure.

Our next steps must be practical, but also transformative. Every young person must get a fair shot at learning, adequate mental-health support safe online and physical spaces, and a seat at the decision-making table.

To our students here today: your voice matters. Your ideas, your leadership, and your energy will define the Maldives of tomorrow, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

Thank you all once again for your time and for your active engagement. We look forward to seeing you at the next panel discussion as well.

Thank you.