The Maldives Library Association (MLA) successfully conducted a 21 hour training program on the Koha Integrated Library Management System from May 11 to 13, 2024.

Koha is an open-source ILS software and is ideal for library automation. It is used widely throughout the world by public, school, and special libraries. This program aimed to enhance the technical skills and knowledge of library professionals, ensuring they are well-equipped to utilize this open-source software for efficient library management. The training included hands-on sessions and expert-led discussions, providing participants with practical experience and valuable insights into the functionalities and benefits of the Koha system.

The call for the training received an overwhelmingly positive response, with the venue, Villa College QI Campus Computer Lab, reaching its full capacity of registered participants.

Training Participants

  1. Aishath Fathina Ibrahim | Librarian, Baa Atoll Education Centre
  2. Aishath Shahaadha | Administrative Officer, B.Goidhoo School
  3. Aminath Maajidha | Library Assistant, Madifushi School
  4. Aminath Naumath | Librarian, Gdh.Atoll Education Center
  5. Badhurunnisa Abdulla | Assistant Librarian, Maakurathu School
  6. Fathimath Anoosha | Assistant Librarian, Villa College
  7. Fathimath Jana Hassan | Library Officer, Villa College
  8. Fathimath Siyama | Assistant Librarian, F. Magoodhoo School
  9. Fusooha Ahmed | Assistant Librarian, Thinadhoo School
  10. Haidharu Ibrahim Rasheed | Assistant Library, Jalaluddin School
  11. Afaaf Abdul Sattar | Assistant Librarian, Islamic University of Maldives
  12. Hammadh Abdul Latheef | Administrator, Kudafaree School
  13. Hawwa Dhaudhu | Librarian, Bodufolhudhoo School
  14. Hussain Ibrahim | Assistant Computer Technician, Jalaluddin School
  15. Limya Umar | Assistant Librarian, Huraa school
  16. Maaya Hassan | Assistant Librarian, Islamic University of Maldives
  17. Mariyam Maureen | Library Assistant, Dhaalu Atholhu Madhrasaa
  18. Mohamed Abdul Hameed | Librarian, Dhaalu Atoll Education Centre
  19. Rilwan Abdul Rasheed | Account teacher (Leading Teacher), Baa Maalhohu School
  20. Saam Mohamed | Assistant System Administrator, Islamic University of Maldives
  21. Sadhuha Hussain | Library Assistant, Mulak School
  22. Shameena Mohamed | Assistant Librarian, AA Mathiveri School
  23. Sheereen Ahmed | Assistant Librarian, Thaa Atoll School

It is noteworthy that the three-day training program attracted not only librarians but also computer technicians, lead teachers, and administrators. This diverse group of participants highlights the broad interest and recognition of the need for such training programs.

Training Instructor & Support Team

  • Fathimath Nashfa | Lead Instructor
  • Ajra Rafeeq | Support Team Member
  • Athiyya Shakeel | Support Team Member
  • Fathimath Nashath | Support Team Member
  • Aminath Riyaz | Support Team Member

The Maldives Library Association would like to express their gratitude to all participants and instructors for their enthusiasm and commitment to advancing the use of Koha in Maldivian libraries. Special thanks are also extended to Villa College for providing the computer lab at a subsidized rate, which greatly facilitated the success of the training program. We eagerly anticipate seeing more libraries modernize their services and join the library automation movement, enhancing the overall efficiency and accessibility of library resources across the Maldives.