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Dhooni Vaahaka: Awareness and Conversations on Protected Birds in Kulhudhuffushi City

Dhooni Vaahaka: Awareness and Conversations on Protected Birds in Kulhudhuffushi City

The Dhooni Vaahaka Session is part of series of activities organized by MRC which aims to create meaningful avenues for volunteers to deepen their understanding of environmental conservation, climate action, and ecosystem restoration, in line with the Volunteer Skills and Knowledge Development Initiative.

Between 06th - 07th September 2025, Maldivian Red Crescent (MRC), together with leading experts Dr. Sebastian Steibl from the University of Auckland and local consultant Ifham Hassan Zareer, hosted a series of Dhooni Vaahaka sessions in Kulhudhuffushi City. These sessions were dedicated to raising awareness about protected and migratory birds in the Maldives 

These sessions were dedicated to raising awareness about protected and migratory birds in the Maldives, drawing from the findings of their ongoing study via the Ocean Country Partnership Programme (OCPP): Status of common breeding and migratory birds in the Maldives. Learn more about the study - here

Engaging Schools and Communities

The outreach initiative included interactive school sessions at H.Dh. Atoll Education Centre and Jalaluddin School, where students explored the significance of bird conservation in relation to broader environmental issues such as climate action and ecosystem restoration.


In addition, a literary salon was held in collaboration with Kulhudhuffushi Public Library, where participants reflected on the cultural and ecological value of birds, and discussed how conservation ties into the wider narrative of Maldivian identity and heritage.

Volunteer Learning and Field Experience

The programme also featured a combined session and bird walk for MRC volunteers. This hands-on activity offered a unique opportunity to observe migratory and protected bird species while learning about field research methodologies used in bird studies. It was designed to enhance volunteer awareness and strengthen their engagement in local conservation efforts.



MRC extends heartfelt thanks to Jalaluddin School and the Kulhudhuffushi Public Library for their generous hosting, as well as the Young Leaders – Kulhudhuffushi Branch for joining and supporting the sessions.