The Aga Khan School, Osh

At the Aga Khan School (AKS), Osh, it is no secret that the last bell is the most wonderful part of graduation. The last bell is a tradition that has been carried on from the time Kyrgyz Republic was part of the Soviet Union. AKS Osh hosts a unique ceremonial tradition to culminate this occasion where the students, teachers and parents participate in the ceremony. During the ceremony, a symbolic last school bell is rung, usually by a first-grader. The graduating class wears the classic school uniform or formal dress, which includes white aprons and white hair-bows for girls. A graduating student, Arzybaeva Bibigul, said, “The graduation is kind of a highlight in our life, and last bell symbolizes a culmination of eleven years at school. It also symbolizes our next steps as learners and leaders - this is an unforgettable event which happens once in a lifetime.” 

This year, students together with the teachers, stayed back and prepared a great amount of handmade decorations for the event. They made butterflies, posters, balloons, and other visual art. The last bell was unforgettable and all of the parents and teachers were satisfied. One student of the graduating class said, “It was the best last bell ever!” Everyone came together to make this event successful.

The AKS, Osh is located in the Kyrgyz Republic, and was established in September 2002. The school strives to create a harmonious balance between academic demands, sporting and cultural activities and community life. It challenges its pupils to be intellectually inquisitive and socially conscious.