Welcoming a new year of discovery

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The start of a new academic year at the Aga Khan Academy Dhaka is marked by energy, optimism and renewed purpose. August brought the community together as students and teachers returned to campus to embark on fresh journeys of learning and growth. Across the Junior School and Senior School, classrooms came alive with curiosity, collaboration and the excitement of new beginnings – embodying the Academy’s mission of nurturing ethical, confident and compassionate leaders. 

In the Junior School, the Primary Years Programme (PYP) early years students entered classrooms with bright smiles, eager to explore, reconnect with friends and begin new adventures. Circle time, creative play and literacy and numeracy activities are already shaping a joyful sense of belonging.  

“It is inspiring to watch our youngest learners approach each day with courage and wonder,” said Early Years Coordinator Ms Shahnaj Khan. “These first steps are building the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.” 

A few doors down, the remaining PYP students in Grades 1–5 began the new academic year with activities nurturing relationships and building learning communities. Students engaged in games and classroom discussions encouraging teamwork, self-expression and inquiry. Younger students reflected on family and friendships, while older grades began projects on rights, responsibilities and critical thinking.  

“PYP is about fostering curiosity while strengthening bonds of collaboration,” said PYP Coordinator Ms Tanjina Hossain. “Our students are already showing enthusiasm and responsibility as they step into this new year.” 

For the Middle Years Programme (MYP), August represented both continuity and opportunity. Some students began their MYP journey, while others are advancing with greater maturity and purpose. With new goals and friendships to pursue, they embraced the chance to learn more about themselves and the world around them. Teachers, too, began with renewed enthusiasm, guiding students to ask questions, explore ideas and develop skills that will serve them for life.  

“Each year in the MYP is like turning a fresh page, full of possibilities and growth,” said MYP Coordinator Dr Fernando Ramirez. “We are excited to support our students as they build resilience, confidence and deeper understanding.” 

The Diploma Programme (DP) began with purposeful engagement. Parents joined an orientation and coffee morning with DP Coordinator Ms Rajashree Basu to understand the expectations for the academic year. Meanwhile, students participated in academic workshops and masterclasses with visiting professors. From econometrics to climate engineering and artificial intelligence, these experiences connected classroom learning to real-world challenges.  

“Our focus this year is on building a shared understanding, academic rigour and meaningful connections to the world beyond the classroom,” Ms Rajashree said. “Together with parents, teachers and students, we are shaping confident learners ready for the future.” 

Complementing this, the Dean of Studies Mr Joseph Sydney Hamkari led DP1 students through team-building activities designed to strengthen collaboration and problem-solving. Students tackled challenges, recreated traditional outfits with limited resources and reflected on the importance of working together towards common goals.   

“These activities help our students recognise the value of teamwork and communication,” Mr Joseph said. “By starting the year with collaboration, we set the stage for success across all aspects of learning.”  

These new beginnings reflect the shared values guiding the Academy. Whether through playful exploration, inquiry-based learning or critical thinking, students are beginning this academic year with courage and creativity. United across divisions, the Academy is looking ahead to a year filled with possibilities.