Maldivian student Aminath Noya Samih has been selected to participate in the second phase of Mission ShakthiSAT, an international satellite initiative aimed at engaging girls in space technology.

Women in Management (WIM) said in a social media post that Noya, an A-level student at Villa International High School, will participate in the programme in India from 23 to 31 August.

Noya was the top-performing student in the most recent O-level examinations.

During the first phase of the programme, participants studied aspects of space engineering online, including orbital mechanics and satellite propulsion.

In the second phase, one student from each participating country will travel to India to take part in the design and development of the satellite.

Noya, who has a strong interest in science and computer technology, will have the opportunity to work with and learn from students from around the world.

More than 12,000 participants from 108 countries are expected to take part in the programme.

The satellite is scheduled to be launched on 11 October this year. Participants will also contribute to the development of a CubeSat that is scheduled to be launched into lunar orbit next year.

Alongside her interest in science and technology, Noya is active in public speaking and has used her platform to raise awareness about cyberbullying and online safety.

She has delivered talks and participated in online awareness campaigns on cyberbullying and cybersecurity, as well as taking part in forums in the Maldives and abroad.