Our Programme
The Academies situate the internationally respected International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum within a unique academic and ethical framework, resulting in outward-looking, academically outstanding graduates. Between 2020 and 2024, universities awarded Academy students more than $60 million in scholarships.
The Unique Philosophy of the Academies
An Aga Khan Academies education prepares exceptional students to become thoughtful, curious, ethical and community-oriented leaders. The IB curriculum is enriched by the Aga Khan Curricular Strands, or AK Strands, of:
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Ethics
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Pluralism
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Cultures (with an emphasis on Muslim civilisations)
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Governance and Civil Society
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Economics for Development
Learning Beyond the Classroom
During their time at the Academies, students gain more than an internationally recognised academic qualification in a pluralistic environment. Campus life offers an array of activities, outings and sports as part of their holistic residential experience. These enable students to make friends, try new things, take on greater responsibilities and pursue their goals – whether to learn an instrument, debate in the Model UN, represent their school at a sport or direct a play. They also develop links with the local community, initiating service projects, learning their school’s national culture and language, and rooting their international outlook in local citizenship.
“The Academies’ curricula, in addition to using English as a connecting language, will emphasise areas of focus such as comparative political systems, global economics and global cultures, along with the importance of pluralism and a sound ethical foundation. At the same time, we will provide thorough preparation in subjects such as science and mathematics, developing the habits of rigorous reasoning and searching inquiry. In addition, the Academies experience will be a holistic one, with a healthy programme of extracurricular and athletic activities.”
His Late Highness Aga Khan IV
Dhaka, May 2008
Preparation for the Future
As students enter their Diploma Programme years, their Academy supports them to plan for the future. In Grade 11, students are encouraged to apply for an internship, gaining skills and experience while contributing to their chosen field. Each Academy has a university counsellor who helps students navigate the application process, connect with university admissions staff and apply for scholarships.
A Platform to Thrive
“I wanted to join the Aga Khan Academy Hyderabad because I believed it would expose me to a variety of curricular and extracurricular opportunities and experiences. Little did I know that my journey would exceed all my expectations.
The Academy has provided me with a platform to thrive. Not only have I grown as a student, but also as a person. Its diverse community has connected me with passionate peers from around the world, while also deepening my appreciation for service, gratitude and self-reflection.
The IB curriculum offered by the Academy is rigorous yet unique and highly rewarding as it develops holistic learners. Lifelong learners with a pluralistic mindset, moral reasoning and compassion are developed to enact change in the world around us. I am fortunate to be a part of a school that instils these values and characteristics in me and today’s youth.”
Mahek Charania, DP1 student, AKA Hyderabad
Part of the Team
“Growing up, my grandfather would tell me stories about working at His Late Highness Aga Khan IV’s stud farms in Ireland. When my cousins moved to Kenya and began attending AKA Mombasa, I visited them several times. I always knew I wanted to end up living and working in Africa.
When I decided to move from Ireland, I saw that the Aga Khan Academy Maputo was looking for a visual arts teacher. I was drawn to the Academy due to the fantastic curriculum on offer. The IB promotes pluralism, cultural enrichment and leadership to create a better world for all. The Academy also admits students from different socio-economic backgrounds to be educated in a phenomenal setting, which is very important.
AKA Maputo is a hard-working family – the staff are fantastic and have made me feel like I have always been a part of the team, and the students are incredible, engaging and dedicated.”
Rachael Odwyer, Visual Arts Teacher, AKA Maputo
The Right Decision
“My first impression of the Aga Khan Academy Mombasa was its impressive campus and modern facilities, from the classrooms to the swimming pool and amphitheatre. Both of my children have been enrolled at the Academy since Grade 1, and we have always found the Academy well-managed and welcoming. Having been in the Parent Teacher Association, we have also seen how responsive the school is to parents’ concerns.
We chose the Academy for its IB curriculum and have seen how it nurtures well-rounded, independent students ready for a changing world. What stood out most was its commitment to pluralism and inclusion. Unlike other schools, there is no favouritism and all students are treated equally. Choosing AKA Mombasa was the right decision for our family.”
Sanjeev Patel, Parent, AKA Mombasa
