Aga Khan Academy Dhaka celebrates His Highness the Aga Khan’s birthday 

On Tuesday, 13 December, the Aga Khan Academy Dhaka celebrated His Highness the Aga Khan’s 86th birthday, who is the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Her Excellency Ms Nathalie Churad, Ambassador of Switzerland to Bangladesh, was welcomed as the special guest for the ceremony by AKDN Resident Diplomatic Representative for Bangladesh His Excellency Munir M Merali and members of the Aga Khan Education Service, Bangladesh Board of Directors.   

Cakes were distributed to all 27 classrooms of the Academy to commemorate this momentous occasion. Students were seen enjoying the cake and having a great time with their friends. The Junior School students also made a video wishing His Highness a very happy birthday and expressing their gratitude.   

His Highness established the Aga Khan Academies in 2000 – with the first Academy opening in Mombasa, Kenya in 2003 – with the aim of providing high-quality education to exceptional students that can prepare them to lead and enact positive change in their communities and beyond. Primary Years Programme students learned about this and more through a video presentation organised by Junior School Librarian Ms Zahura Begum.  

“The students were inspired by His Highness’ contribution to the welfare of vulnerable communities around the world,” Ms Zahura said. “With all this inspiration, I hope the students grow up with the mindset to give back to our country and the world in as many ways possible.”    

On behalf of AKDN, H.E. Mr Merali and H.E. Ms Nathalie then handed over certificates of appreciation to 15 volunteers for their assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic at the Academy’s Senior School library. After the certificate distribution, faculty and staff members put together an amazing dance performance, in which many others joined. AKDN also organised a lunch to celebrate the day with all staff and faculty who play a role in running the Academy in one way or the other.   

Before departing, H.E Ms Nathalie Chuard signed the Academy’s guestbook, praising the spirit of the students and staff, which moved her deeply during the visit, and she insisted she would carry it with her.   

“I wish the Academy and its team success, and I hope that all this beautiful vision will be realised,” H.E Ms Nathalie wrote. “I am going back to my office with a lot of energy and positive thoughts!”