Niranjan Seena Suresh: Twelve years, one journey and uncountable memories

In the lead-up to the Class of 2025’s graduation from the Aga Khan Academy Hyderabad, we feature the last of the six graduates who have been at the Academy since Grade 1.

Below, we learn more about Niranjan Seena Suresh’s evolving experiences at the Academy he has called his home for the past 12 years.

Niranjan Seena Suresh, a Diploma Programme 2 student at the Aga Khan Academy Hyderabad, has spent the past 12 years growing, learning and evolving within the walls of the Academy that he calls home. His journey is one marked by transformation, leadership and an enduring sense of gratitude. Responding to the question of what he would miss the most about the Academy, Niranjan said, “I will miss the natural beauty of the campus – the vibrant yet pristine environment I call my home.”

Graduating after over a decade at the Academy feels surreal for him. He describes it as “hard to believe,” reflecting on how he has witnessed and contributed to the school’s evolution from a single-building space into the bustling and vibrant community it is today.

His earliest memory treads back to a junior school musical, where he found himself singing and dancing on stage in front of a large audience of parents and staff. Though it was a nerve-wracking experience for young Niranjan, it also sparked a lifelong appreciation and gratitude for the opportunities the school provided him, helping him to step outside his comfort zone.

Over the years, Niranjan not only gained knowledge but also developed a strong sense of self-awareness. “The school helped me discover who I am. It helped me understand and embrace the world around me,” Niranjan said. “One of the most valuable lessons I learnt from my time at the Academy is open-mindedness. You never know who would become a friend for a lifetime.”

Among all subjects, physics stood out as his favourite—not just because of personal interest, but because of the passion his teachers brought to every class. Their enthusiasm and clarity turned complex concepts into engaging lessons that left a lasting impact on Niranjan.

One of his proudest achievements at the Academy was his contribution to the inception and growth of the Astronomy Club, alongside other astronomy enthusiasts. Their joint efforts led to the addition of a high-end telescope to the club, a milestone that reflected both initiative and dedication.

Niranjan recalls the Diploma Programme 1 grade trip to Tarkarli, Maharashtra, as one of the most unforgettable experiences of his school life. It not only helped him connect with his peers and strengthen ties but also fostered confidence and leadership through life skills training. Another key turning point in his journey toward personal development was his role as the coordinator of photojournalism for the Academy’s Model United Nations conference. The leadership role challenged him to step into an unfamiliar territory, which helped him find his passion while nurturing growth.

Niranjan expressed deep gratitude for His Late Highness the Aga Khan IV, whose vision of pluralism and world education made the Academy a reality. “Without him, I would not have had the chance to meet my wonderful friends, peers and teachers, who, though from diverse backgrounds, work toward a shared goal of global excellence,” Niranjan reflected.

To him, being a student at the Aga Khan Academy Hyderabad means being an agent of positive change. The Academy’s culture of inclusivity and values around ethical leadership made him a strong advocate of social change, willing to serve the community and contribute meaningfully to the world.

Among his most cherished school traditions, the annual Summer Productions will remain closest to his heart as an event that brought the entire residential community of the Academy together, sharing joy and building bonds. As he prepares for the university, Niranjan plans to spend some quality time with friends before stepping into the next chapter of his life.

As Niranjan prepares to graduate, he describes his feelings through the profound words of A.A. Milne: “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

Niranjan believes he will not only carry with him indelible memories but also a strong sense of identity, responsibility and gratitude. As someone who appreciates the contributions of the Academy in fostering his overall growth, Niranjan’s advice to his juniors is: “be grateful for where you are and for everything you receive.”

Interviewed by Pavan Kumar, Diploma Programme 1