President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has conferred the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI), the Maldives' highest civilian honour, to Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain during the Republic Day ceremony, for his exceptional services to education.

Dr Zahir Hussain’s career in education began after his studies at Al-Azhar University in Egypt, where he specialised in theology. Upon returning to the Maldives, he started teaching at Aminiya School, later serving as the Minister of Education. In this role, he initiated several pioneering projects, including establishing the Science Education Centre in 1979 and implementing the foundational Basic Education Project, which remains a cornerstone of the national curriculum.

Beyond his contributions to education, Dr Zahir Hussain has held various significant roles, including Minister in the President’s Office and Minister of Youth and Sports, along with an appointed position in Parliament. He was also instrumental in translating the Holy Quran into Dhivehi and published many articles and sermons through Dheenuge Magu, an Islamic publication by the President’s Office. His efforts earned him several accolades, including the National Award of Recognition in 1989 and the Minivan25 National Award.

Currently serving as Chancellor of the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) since 2019, Dr Zahir Hussain’s legacy of 48 years in public service reflects his unwavering commitment to the development of education and his enduring impact on Maldivian society.