Celebrating the Aga Khan Academy Mombasa’s Class of 2026

The Aga Khan Academy Mombasa proudly celebrated the graduation of its International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme Class of 2026 on Saturday, 23 May. This year’s ceremony recognised 72 students from around the world, including Canada, Chile, India, Kenya, Mozambique, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe, the Netherlands and the Democratic Republic of Congo.  

Held at the Academy, the graduation ceremony brought together students, families, faculty and distinguished guests to recognise the achievements of the graduating class. The ceremony was also live streamed to family members, friends, the wider school community and alumni of the Aga Khan Schools (AKS), reaching nearly 3,700 viewers across the country and internationally. 

Before the graduation ceremony, a special pinning ceremony was held for the graduating class with their teachers and mentors. As part of a tradition, the graduates were awarded a pin signifying the completion of their time at the Academy as they join a growing legacy of alumni across AKS around the world. 

Addressing the graduates in his welcome remarks, Head of Academy Mr Colin Webster reflected on the Academy’s long-standing mission of developing homegrown, ethical leaders equipped to contribute meaningfully to society. Drawing on the values of pluralism, service and leadership embedded within the Academy’s curriculum, he encouraged the graduating class to shape the future with purpose and integrity. “The world awaits the vision our graduates of 2026 will share,” Mr Webster said.  

He also noted how the Academy’s diverse learning environment prepares students not only for academic success, but also for responsible leadership in an increasingly interconnected world. 

This year’s keynote address was delivered by Dr Mohamed Lachemi, President and Vice-Chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University, who also signed a Memorandum of Understanding after the graduation ceremony with AKS to expand higher education opportunities and strengthen global pathways for students across the schools. During his speech, Dr Lachemi encouraged graduates to embrace innovation, courage and lifelong learning, while also emphasising the importance of global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding. “In a world that is building more walls, it needs people like you who know how to build bridges,” he said. 

Dr Rahim Somani, General Manager of AKS, was also present at the ceremony. He reflected on the significance of celebrating the IB Diploma Programme graduations across the AKS network this year. “When I look at our graduates, one word comes to mind: hope,” he said. “These young people leave our schools not only with knowledge and skills, but with resilience, compassion and strength of character. They represent a generation that will help build more pluralistic, just, and sustainable societies while improving the quality of life of the communities they will go on to serve.”   

Members of the Class of 2026 received admissions offers from leading universities across North America, Europe, Asia and Africa, including the University of Western Ontario, Ivey Business School, Culinary Arts Academy, IE University, King’s College London and Maastricht University. They will pursue diverse fields of study, such as culinary arts, cognitive science, architecture, digital media and culture, international business, law, and kinesiology. Additionally, the cohort was collectively offered over $2.7 million in scholarships. 

Reflecting on the lessons learnt throughout their years together, Abigail Moora – this year’s class speaker – encouraged her peers to embrace authenticity as they move forward, reminding them that “there will always be a right time to be yourself.” She also reflected on how the cohort is shaped by deep friendships, individuality and shared growth. “We started as friends in a class and we will be leaving as a class of friends,” Abigail said.  

As they embark on the next chapter of their journeys, the graduates join a global Aga Khan Schools alumni community united by a commitment to pluralism, ethical leadership and service to society. Whether pursuing careers in science, the arts, business, public service or innovation, the Class of 2026 leaves the Academy prepared to contribute thoughtfully and meaningfully to an increasingly interconnected world.  

The Aga Khan Academy Mombasa extends its warmest congratulations to the Class of 2026 and looks forward to their continued success in the years ahead. The full graduation ceremony is available to watch online via YouTube here.