Partial Sponsorship to Attend PDWL 2026 – Perth, Australia

The Maldives Library Association (MLA) is pleased to announce a Call for Applications for the School Librarians Capacity Building Fellowship, offering partial sponsorship for school librarians in the Maldives to participate in the Professional Development Workshop on Library and Information Services (PDWL) 2026.

Location: Perth, Australia

Dates: 9–19 September 2026

Why This Fellowship Matters

School librarians play a critical role in supporting teaching, learning, literacy, and information skills in schools. Yet, they are often among the least supported professionals in terms of access to international professional development opportunities.

This fellowship is designed to:

  • Broaden international exposure for school librarians
  • Strengthen professional capacity and leadership
  • Enable participants to bring back innovative practices to their schools and communities
  • Foster a culture of knowledge sharing and professional growth

PDWL 2026 is organised by the Maldives National University (MNU), Faculty of Arts, primarily for LIS students, with additional placements offered to the wider Maldivian library sector in collaboration with MLA.

Sponsorship Streams Available

Stream 1 – Partial Sponsorship (One Participant)

Approximate value: MVR 35,000, covering:

  • International airfare
  • Local transport in Perth
  • PDWL 2026 workshop fee
  • Accommodation (twin-share basis)

Stream 2 – Transport Support (Up to Two Participants)

  • Up to MVR 3,000 to cover transport costs between the applicant’s resident island and Velana International Airport (Malé)

Note: All payments will be based on documented expenses only.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Be currently employed as a school librarian in the Maldives
  • Have at least 5 years of experience in a school library
  • Hold a Diploma in Library and Information Science, or GCE A’Level with at least two passes
  • Demonstrate commitment to professional growth and knowledge sharing
  • Hold a valid passport and be able to secure an Australian visa
    (Visa process in May 2026; fee approx. AUD 200 / MVR 2,000)

How to Apply

Applicants are required to submit:

  1. A completed online application form
    👉 https://forms.gle/8YiV6UoKbYMap87o6
  2. A short video (maximum 2 minutes) explaining why they should be selected
  3. One reference letter from a school principal or relevant education authority

Selection Process & Timeline

  • Applications will be reviewed by two international assessors and a local selection committee
  • Selection will be based on:
    • Motivation and potential impact
    • Commitment to librarianship and professional growth
    • Ability to share learning outcomes with peers
    • Work experience in the LIS sector

Application deadline: Sunday, 18 January 2026
Selection finalised by: Friday, 30 January 2026

Learn More About PDWL 2026

Access the PDWL 2026 information brochure:

Further Information

For queries or clarification, please contact the MLA Secretariat at:
info.malias@gmail.com

If you are a passionate school librarian ready to grow professionally and contribute back to your school community, this is your opportunity. Apply now and be part of PDWL 2026!