The Deputy Minister of Education of Maldives, Dr Mahmood Shougee met the Central Committee and Web Team on 1st November 2003, at a special "Roadha Veelun" hosted by Mr Ali Haidar (Previous Chairperson of MSA-UK) and family in their private residence in London. The Deputy Minster was returning home after participating the 15th Conference of the Commonwealth Education Ministers held in Edinburgh, Scotland. Ms Aamaal Ali and Mr Mohamed Jameel were also present in the gathering.

Dr Shougee conveyed his warm felicitations and well wishes to all the members on this auspicious month of Ramazan and extended appreciation to MSA(UK) for its hard work in bringing together the Maldivian students in the UK and strengthening the relationship among the members by arranging recreational and social events. He gave special credit to the webteam for the high standard of the website and the way it is maintained.

Dr Shougee enquired about the educational issues, student concerns, activities and day-to-day running of the association. The Chairperson, Mr Abdullah Shareef gave a brief introduction about the association and about the objectives and missions for the current year. He also made aware about the improvement of facilities required at Rosemont (raised by members) and also discussed the possibility of increasing the Ministry's financial contribution to MSA(UK). Dr Shougee confirmed that the previous Chairperson had also discussed the matter during his term and agreed to bring it to the attention of the Minster on his return. The Treasurer, Mr Ibrahim Iyas updated Dr Shougee on the developments of the MSA(UK) website and about the attempts to obtain sponsorships to generate extra revenue to the association. Student concerns and issues were raised and discussed by the Student Advisor Mr Ismail Mohamed.

Dr Shougee also discussed with the committee members the wider roles MSA(UK) can play especially in providing information to prospective students in special educational events held in Maldives in liaison with organisations like British Council. Dr Shougee advised MSA(UK) to adhere to the ethics of running a student association and to follow Ministry's set guidelines. Dr Shougee stated that he was very pleased with the running of the association and gave credit to the members. He also advised members to be vigilant and thoughtful and work together to protect our nation's reputation.

To conclude the meeting Miss Neeza Hassan kamil, Secretary extended gratitude on behalf of MSA(UK) to the Deputy Minister for giving an opportunity to meet him despite his busy schedule and limited time. She also highlighted the continued cooperation and support we have received from the Ministry of Education in the past and especially during our term at the Central Committee. Dr Shougee in his conclusion expressed his delight to meet the Central Committee and the Web Team and conveyed his best wishes to all the Maldivian students in the UK. He assured that the close relations that existed between MSA(UK) and the ministry would continue to flourish in the years to come.