The Aga Khan School, Dhaka

To honour the graduates, a ceremony was held at the Dhaka Regency Hotel & Resort, which was attended by parents, students, staff and the Aga Khan Education Service (AKES), Bangladesh Board of Directors. In her opening remarks, Head of Senior School Ms Fahmida Chowdhury welcomed all with a few quotes highlighting the significance of resilience and perseverance. She congratulated the parents and graduates, envisioning a triumph-filled journey ahead. 

“Remember that good things come to good people,” Ms Fahmida said. “And if there is one thing I hope your education at The Aga Khan School, Dhaka has done, I hope it has instilled the values and ethics you need to make the right decisions in life and to be good people.” 

During their time at AKS, D, the Class of 2023 have not only excelled academically but have also actively participated in a wide range of co-curricular and extracurricular activities. From arts and sports to community service and environmental initiatives, these graduates have demonstrated their commitment to personal growth, social responsibility and making a positive impact on society. One example can be seen with the graduates volunteering at the Nila Resource Centre – a centre for disabled children from underprivileged communities in Dhaka. 

The keynote speaker, Chairman of AKES, Bangladesh Amyn Saleh, congratulated the graduating Class of 2023 on behalf of the Board of Directors. He highlighted the rapid technological advancements and environmental changes that have taken place over the lifetimes of the graduates, emphasising the need for them to be adaptable, lifelong learners equipped with 21st-century skills. He also commended the students' engagement in academics, service projects and sports. 

“I was thrilled to learn that all of you have been engaged in many community service projects and, at the same time, you have earned excellent results not only in your exams and national Olympiads, but also on the sports field,” Chairman Amyn said. “I am equally amazed by the number of university acceptances and scholarships awarded to your graduating class.” 

The Class of 2023 were offered over $2 million in scholarships to attend prestigious universities around the world, including the University of California, Davis, the University College London, the University of British Columbia, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and many more. 

The graduating class chose two of their teachers to speak at the ceremony, Mr ABM Shamsuddoha and Ms Rokhsana Afroz, who commended the graduates for their achievements and growth throughout their academic journey. They praised the graduating class’s dedication, hard work and ability to navigate challenges while participating in various co-curricular and extracurricular activities. They also emphasised the importance of integrity, kindness and a thirst for knowledge, encouraging the graduates to make a positive impact in the world and the local community and to be ambassadors for Bangladesh.  

To conclude the ceremony, valedictorians Md Waezul Hoque and Mahdi Zaman Pathan Sadaab addressed their peers. They recalled with pride the extraordinary achievements and memories the graduates shared, as well as the personal hardships from their years at AKS, D. They thanked their classmates, teachers and parents for their friendship and support, and looked forward to the future with hope and courage. 

As the graduates embark on their next journey, The Aga Khan School, Dhaka wishes the Class of 2023 all the best in their future endeavours and is confident in their ability to navigate new horizons, overcome challenges and embrace opportunities with determination.