Celebrating artistic excellence: The Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School, Dar es Salaam and the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar es Salaam win first prize in local Peace Poster Contest


10 November 2023

Students from the Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School (AKNPS), Dar es Salaam and the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School (AKMSS), Dar es Salaam received the coveted first prize in the Lions Club of Dar es Salaam Tanzanites’ Peace Poster Contest, which was held under the theme, “DARE TO DREAM”.

Celebrating artistic excellence: The Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School, Dar es Salaam and the Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School, Dar es Salaam win first prize in local Peace Poster Contest
“This heart-warming accomplishment reflects the dedication and creativity of our young artists,” said Dr Gurmeet Kaur Sachdeva, the visual arts teacher at AKNPS, Dar es Salaam. “The students poured their thoughts about peace into their art, creating pieces that resonated deeply with the competition's theme. It is not just a recognition of their artistic skills but a testament to their commitment to promoting peace, tolerance and understanding among nations.”  

Among the talented awardees were Christa S. Siara and Sethu Pathak of Grade 6, Ibrahim Bin Imran of Grade 8 and Noreen Shuma of Grade 7. Christa was honoured with the Lions Club of Dar es Salaam Tanzanites Sky's Choice Award, while Ibrahim received the Lions Club of Dar es Salaam Tanzanites Choice Award. Noreen's artwork was selected for the Judge's Choice Award, and the pinnacle of success was achieved by Sethu, who became the grand winner of the contest. 

"When I entered the peace poster competition, I initially feared that I might not win due to my doubts about my artistic skills,”  Noreen said. “However, my love for drawing and colouring brought me immense joy throughout the process. As I continued to participate, my confidence grew, and I maintained a positive outlook, determined to succeed regardless of the outcome. Upon learning that I had been chosen by the judges as the winner [in my category], I felt a deep sense of happiness, realising that one's inner passion can propel them to greater heights. I take great pride in my achievement, and creating my first peace poster was an incredibly enjoyable experience." 

The Aga Khan Education Service (AKES), Tanzania extends its heartfelt congratulations to all the students who participated and those who received awards. This achievement not only highlights the talent and creativity that exists within the school community, but it serves as a reminder of the power of art to inspire change and promote unity. 

Photos (top to bottom):
  • Head of School, AKMSS, Dar es Salaam (International Section) Dr Arun Mukherjee, being honoured with an award from a representative of the Lions Club. 
  • Dr Gurmeet Sachdeva, the visual arts teacher at AKNPS, Dar es Salaam, receiving an award.