Diploma Programme
The demanding pre-university IB Diploma Programme (DP) is recognised by over 2,000 universities worldwide. Our students cover a broad, in-depth curriculum, with additional elements designed to take them beyond a traditional course of studies.
The Curriculum
At the AKA Dhaka, we guide our DP students to excel in a comprehensive curriculum which encourages them to apply their knowledge and skills throughout. They study languages, social sciences, experimental sciences, mathematics and the arts. They are rigorously assessed to global IB standards, both through internal exams and by independent external examiners.
We also work with our students to develop academically, socially and physically through the three unique programmes below.
Aga Khan Academies on the
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme exams
Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
How do we know? What counts as good evidence? How does a theory play out in real life?
We challenge our students to question the nature of knowledge, to recognise biases and to analyse evidence. They spend 100 hours reflecting on the knowledge they gain within and beyond the classroom. Through these discussions, they gain self awareness and an understanding of others’ perspectives, helping them emerge as critical thinkers and confident communicators in a diverse world.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
During the DP, our students deepen their engagement with their creative endeavours, physical activities and community service projects.
As they master their chosen activities, they develop leadership and teamwork skills as they work together to guide younger students, and learn in practice how they can make a difference to others.
At the Aga Khan Academy in Hyderabad, India, DP students have worked on different CAS projects. This includes an organic farm on campus, volunteering at a local school and participating in an initiative called Project Bindu, which aims to spread awareness and educate women and others on menstrual health.
Extended Essay
Students choose a topic for a 4,000-word essay, perhaps delving into a favourite subject; maybe alighting on something new; or combining disciplines to study a globally significant issue. They practise independent study, develop their research skills and hone their writing ability, giving them a head start for university.
Invaluable learning through MUN
“Being 12-years-old and talking about solving world problems makes you a prodigy and a critical thinker, but being 17-years-old and talking about it, apparently makes you illogical and unrealistic.
I am the current director general for AKA Dhaka Model United Nations (MUN), but more than the position, I am an advocate for students solving global problems. I have been a part of the Academy’s MUN for over six years now, and if this journey has taught me anything it is that no idea is too small and every solution makes a difference.
The development of this mindset happens through our supervisors helping us make MUN a reality. Our teachers have constantly supported us and this year’s secretariat has always been ready to put in the extra yard. I have learned a lot of skills as a part of my MUN experience, such as working as a team and finding loopholes around policies, incorporating a zillion different perspectives from my teammates, while also learning how to delegate tasks, conflict resolution and negotiate.
These transferable skills have been incubated by the constant meetings about everything related to MUN. Along with being a part-time TEDx, FIRST Lego League and MUN organiser in school, I am also studying Global Politics. Working closely with the United Nations Charter and the MUN guidelines has helped me get first-hand experience about world politics and apply my classroom learnings in real-time world conflict discussions and the process of their resolution.”
Alyque Farishta, Diploma Programme 2 student, Aga Khan Academy Dhaka