President Dr Mohamed Muizzu met with the outgoing Chancellor of the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM), Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain, ODRI, and expressed appreciation for his service and contributions during his tenure.

The meeting was held this morning at the President’s Office, where the President acknowledged Dr Zahir Hussain’s significant role in advancing the Maldivian education sector. He commended Dr Zahir’s leadership in the Government’s Basic Education Programme, his efforts to establish community schools and atoll education centres nationwide, and his work in promoting public awareness of education.

Dr Zahir Hussain described his tenure as Chancellor of IUM as an honour and thanked the President for the opportunity to serve. He also praised the President’s initiatives aimed at strengthening and improving the quality of education in the Maldives.

In recognition of his distinguished service, the President presented Dr Zahir Hussain with a letter of appreciation. The letter highlighted his contributions to expanding higher education during his time as Chancellor of IUM and previously as Chancellor of the Maldives National University (MNU), as well as his more than decade-long service as Minister of Education. The President noted his role in modernising the education system, integrating Maldivian values into curricula, expanding Arabic-Islamic education, and implementing the Basic Education Programme.

Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain has served the State for 49 years and 9 months, including over 33 years in the education sector. He was awarded the Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI) in 2008 and received the Highest Honour for Service to Maldivian Education on Republic Day 2024.