Faafu Atoll Education Center, located in the Maldives, has been named the winner of the 2026 Zayed Sustainability Prize in the Global High Schools, South Asia category. The school was recognised for its holistic sustainability project that integrates clean energy, water conservation, and food production within its campus.
A Model for Sustainable Island Living
The project will transform the school into a model of sustainability by installing 60 kW of solar and 40 kW of wind systems, rainwater harvesting and UV filtration, hydroponics, and bamboo composting, all monitored through AI-powered dashboards. It demonstrates how island schools can achieve self-sufficiency and resilience through clean technology and education.
The initiative is expected to benefit around 570 students and 66 teachers, while also powering the entire school and a nearby hospital. It will reduce over 120 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually and cut plastic bottle use by approximately 80%.
Leadership Praise and Vision
“The Zayed Sustainability Prize encourages schools to be living examples of sustainability. Faafu Atoll Education Center is showing how clean energy, water, and food systems can come together to create thriving, self-reliant communities. Their work reflects Sheikh Zayed’s enduring vision of balance between people and nature.”
Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of the Zayed Sustainability Prize
Abdulla Ahmed, Principal of Faafu Atoll Education Center, said:
“Winning the Zayed Sustainability Prize is a proud moment for Faafu Atoll Education Centre and the Maldives. This recognition strengthens our students’ belief that youth-led innovation can drive real change for a sustainable future. We are committed to continuing this journey of empowering our community through clean energy, water security, and environmental stewardship.”
Funding and Future Plans
The US $150,000 award will be used to expand renewable energy systems, develop sustainability-focused coursework, and implement student-led outreach programmes across nearby islands.
About the Zayed Sustainability Prize
The Zayed Sustainability Prize honours organisations and high schools driving impactful and innovative solutions across the categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools. Since its inception, the Prize has positively impacted the lives of over 400 million people worldwide, carrying forward the visionary legacy of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Since 2013, the Prize has awarded 68 high schools under its Global High Schools category across regions including The Americas, Sub-Saharan Africa, Middle East and North Africa, Europe and Central Asia, South Asia, and East Asia and Pacific. To date, winners have impacted the lives of over 56,599 students and 480,660 people in their wider communities.
