Suhaan Kalwani: From foundation to farewell

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

Below is the first of the six features, where we learn about Suhaan Kalwani and his journey at the Academy over the past 12 years.

Since stepping through the doors of the Aga Khan Academy Hyderabad in the first grade, Suhaan Kalwani has embarked on a remarkable journey of growth, learning and self-discovery. As his time at the Academy draws to a close, he reflects on the many life lessons, cherished memories and invaluable experiences that have shaped his character. Over the years, the Academy has not only nurtured his academic pursuits but also instilled in him a strong foundation of skills and values that will guide him well into the future.

Since his early school days, Suhaan has always been an active and engaged member of the different enrichment activities designed to foster life skills and leadership qualities. The enquiry-based curriculum and skill-based enrichment activities have not only helped him become a more mature individual but also discover and explore his passions and interests.

“I have become more confident, curious and resilient, not just in academics but also as a person. The practice of ‘learning through action and service’ at the Academy gave me direction, discipline and opportunities that helped me discover who I am and what I’m passionate about. Besides, the enrichment activities helped me make friends who stood by me through thick and thin,” Suhaan said.

Suhaan fondly remembers one of the many iconic locations on the school campus – the roundabout – from where he started and will bid adieu to his school days. Locations such as these will soon become a nostalgia – a place he will fondly remember as one where students start their day at school, a place that exuberated energy, joy and brand-new hope for the day.

Suhaan reflects on how the academy backed his efforts to overcome his academic challenges, especially after the confinement to online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic and become a better version of himself. The Academy fostered his resilience and sense of commitment that helped him win over his insecurities and prepared him for greater achievements. Suhaan said, “The Academy and its teachers motivated me to work diligently and discover my real potential. My academic comeback between Diploma Programme 1 and 2, overcoming the near-failure grades, staying disciplined and significantly improving my performance was a turning point I’m genuinely proud of.”

As someone who spent so much time learning and growing alongside his peers, Suhaan has come to see the Academy as a second home. Even the fellow students who travelled to school with him on Bus 17 are like a second family to him. Forming strong bonds of friendship helped him become the person he is today, while making his journey at the Academy a lot more enjoyable and memorable.

Suhaan believes that his massive transformation into a confident, persevering and self-motivated individual leaves him with the responsibility to share his experiences and suggestions with the juniors at the Academy, stressing the importance of resilience and finding new ways to succeed. Advising his juniors, Suhaan said, “It is important to experiment with your interests and hobbies. Even if you fail, remember, there’s always another chance or another way.”

Interviewed by Ayra Farista, Diploma Programme 1