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Aminath Noya Sameeh has been chosen to represent the Maldives in Mission ShakthiSAT, an international space initiative taking place in Delhi this month. Organized by Space Kids India, the program aims to inspire young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The ambitious project brings together 12,000 female students from 108 nations, making it the largest space program of its kind. During the event, participants will collaborate to design, assemble, and launch a satellite destined for lunar orbit. According to Women in Management (WIM), Noya possesses a deep passion for science and computer technology. She aspires to build a career in computer science and create technological innovations that benefit society. Calling her selection a “golden opportunity,” Noya expressed excitement about connecting with global peers, expanding her horizons, and learning new skills. She shared that the experience has already taught her to dream big and hold strong confidence in her abilities. Image: WIM

A young Maldivian Hafizah has secured fourth place at one of the world’s most prestigious international Quran competitions, held annually in Saudi Arabia. The 46th King Abdulaziz International Competition for the Memorization, Recitation and Interpretation of the Holy Quran brought together hundreds of contestants from around the world. This year’s competition was particularly significant as it marked the first edition to include female participants. Representing the Maldives, Fathimath Shaya Zahir placed fourth in the category for memorization of the entire Quran, according to Islamic Minister Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, who is currently in Makkah. Shaya received SAR 170,000 in prize money, which is approximately USD 45,260, or MVR 700,000. Her Quran memorization journey began when she was just seven years old, when she enrolled in Hifz classes at the Center for Holy Quran. She completed memorizing the entire Quran at the age of nine. In 2019, at just 10 years old, Shaya completed her assessment before the examination committee and was certified as a Hafizah. That same year, she was awarded the President’s Special Medal for Committing the Holy Quran to Memory by then-President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih during the official Republic Day celebrations. Shaya also won first place in the Hifz category at the 37th National Quran Competition in 2025, alongside numerous other accolades in Quran competitions.

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of our Editor, Mohamed Khalid (Ben). Ben played a vital role during Sosal’s formative days, generously sharing his experience, insight, and editorial guidance. His calm counsel and principled approach to journalism helped shape the standards we continue to uphold. Ben previously worked at Haveeru News. Beyond journalism, he was a lifelong Scout, serving as a former Chief Commissioner of the Scouts Association of Maldives and as a permanent member of the Scout Council, roles through which he influenced generations of young Maldivians. Ben was also a dedicated educator. He attended the American University of Beirut and the University of Bristol; served as principal of several schools; and later, worked at the Ministry of Education.  Ben also served as a Teacher Educator at the Institute for Teacher Education (ITE), where he trained generations of English language teachers and contributed immensely to English literacy in the Maldives. Ben's contributions to education and youth development in the country remain enduring. We at Sosal extend our heartfelt condolences to Ben’s family, friends, colleagues, and the wider Scout community. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and grant patience and strength to his family and the many lives he touched.