Diploma Programme
The demanding pre-university International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, or IB DP, is recognised by over 4,500 universities worldwide. Our students cover a broad, in-depth curriculum, with additional elements designed to take them beyond a traditional course of study.
“With this understanding, I believe that the next wave of leaders coming from the Aga Khan Academy Mombasa will be the foundation of positive change in the world.”
Raphael Mwachiti
Class of 2021, AKA Mombasa
The Curriculum
At AKA Mombasa, we guide our DP students to excel in a comprehensive curriculum which encourages them to apply their knowledge and skills throughout. They study languages, social sciences, experimental sciences, mathematics and the arts. They are rigorously assessed to global IB standards, both through internal exams and by independent external examiners.
We also work with our students to develop academically, socially and physically through the three unique programmes below.
33.9
Our DP2 students achieved an impressive average of 33.9 in the 2025 IB DP exams, exceeding the global average of 30.6
Theory of Knowledge
How do we know? What counts as good evidence? How does a theory play out in real life?
Through the DP’s theory of knowledge, or TOK, we challenge our students to question the nature of knowledge, recognise biases and analyse evidence. They spend 100 hours reflecting on the knowledge they gain within and beyond the classroom. Through these discussions, they gain self-awareness and an understanding of others’ perspectives, helping them emerge as critical thinkers and confident communicators in a diverse world.
Creativity, Activity, Service
During the DP, our students deepen their engagement with creative endeavours, physical activities and community service projects. As they master their chosen activities, they develop leadership and teamwork skills and work together to guide younger students – learning in practice how they can make a difference to others.
Students participate in sustainable projects that bring real transformation to the greater community. Recent DP projects include coral conservation and marine education along the Kenyan coast; initiatives that raise awareness of menstruation and female hygiene; and projects focused on environmental sustainability and technology-driven development. Find out what our students have achieved for those around them.
Extended Essay
The DP’s extended essay, or EE, involves students choosing a topic for a 4,000-word essay. Students delve into a favourite subject or combine disciplines to study a globally significant issue. They practise independent study, develop their research skills and hone their writing ability, giving them a head start for university.
In recent years, students have explored complex global and economic issues, including the impact of urban expansion on food security in peri-urban areas of Hyderabad; the relationship between science, technology and society through an analysis of the MCAS system and its effect on Boeing’s market performance; and the economic impact of the UK government’s “Eat Out to Help Out” scheme on restaurant consumption in Kent, UK. These inquiries reflect students’ ability to apply interdisciplinary thinking to real-world challenges.
Honing Leadership Skills Through TEDxYouth@AKAMombasa
“What began as a simple application to speak at TEDxYouth@AKAMombasa grew into a three-year journey. Each year brought a new challenge, from performing an original spoken-word piece, to mentoring performers and later overseeing committees and supporting a large student team.
These changing roles contributed greatly to my personal development, strengthening both my creative confidence and leadership skills. Although the event was student-led, it was supported by staff, who guided the process throughout.
Planning the event taught me transferable skills beyond the classroom, such as creating timelines, delegating tasks and more, which I can apply meaningfully to my academic and creative work.”
Tamara Werle, Class of 2020, AKA Mombasa
