First IB diploma cohort graduates from Aga Khan Academy Dhaka

 The Aga Khan Academy Dhaka marked a historic milestone on Saturday, 24 May, as it celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme students.

The ceremony honoured 32 students who completed the rigorous two-year programme and embodied the Academy's core values of leadership, global citizenship and service to society.

Held at the Dhaka Regency Celebrations Hall, the graduation ceremony brought together faculty, families, dignitaries, and guests. It was live-streamed to over 7,000 viewers in Bangladesh and abroad. A special pinning ceremony, a tradition across the Aga Khan Academies network, preceded the main event, with graduates receiving the Academy's alum pin as a symbol of their transition to the global Aga Khan Schools alum community.

"This milestone reflects both the dedication of our students and the strength of the Academy's mission and vision," said Suvina Shunglu, Head of the Academy. "The IB journey is transformative – it calls on students to think critically, serve meaningfully and embrace pluralism. Our graduates have consistently embodied these values, and we are confident they will continue to lead with kindness, curiosity and courage in an ever-changing world."

During the ceremony, Amyn Saleh, Chairman of the Aga Khan Education Service, Bangladesh, paid tribute to His Late Highness the Aga Khan IV, who passed away in February. He reflected on His Late Highness's institution-building legacy and commitment to creating ethical leaders through a global education network of over 200 Aga Khan Schools and Academies across 11 countries.

"I am confident that your education journey at the Aga Khan Academy Dhaka has prepared you for this future," said Amyn. "To make ethical choices, to embrace the strength of pluralism and to commit to service in your communities and beyond. I am also proud to share that the Class of 2025 has received offers from 110 universities globally and scholarships worth approximately USD 3 million."

Delivering the keynote address, Dr Wameq A Raza, Senior Health Specialist at the World Bank and an alumnus of the Aga Khan School Dhaka, Class of 2001, encouraged students to embrace uncertainty and remain purpose-driven.

"You are now stepping into a phase of true independence – emotional, intellectual and financial," said Dr Raza. "Do not be afraid of uncertainty; embrace it. You do not need a perfect plan – just a sense of purpose, curiosity and the willingness to keep learning. Be open to new ideas, stay accountable and build a life that gives you the freedom to grow, give and thrive. Amid it all, be kind to yourself and others."

The event also featured cultural performances, including a moving choral performance by the student choir Oikotan and a dance titled Soulflow—The Mystical Rhythm, reflecting the Academy's commitment to nurturing creativity and cultural identity.

Graduates Aribah Farzin Shah and Aarav Verma were honoured with the Academy's Academy Award of Excellence for exemplifying the Aga Khan Academies Learner Profile.

Class Speaker AKM Ahnaaf Murshed delivered an emotional address, urging his peers to carry forward the compassion and resilience they have cultivated during their time at the Academy.

"Each person around you is someone whose life you've touched," said Murshed. "In a world that may not always be kind, I hope you will reflect on these two years and remember what you've already achieved. Stay pluralistic, morally strong, and above all, human."

The Class of 2025 received offers from top universities across Bangladesh and around the world, including Queen Mary University of London (UK), The University of Hong Kong (China), University of New South Wales (Australia), York University (Canada), University of Twente (Netherlands), Arizona State University (USA), and the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (India).