Iskandar School celebrates 65th anniversary in grandeur

Iskandar School marked its 65th anniversary in grandeur on Sunday.

To commemorate the occasion, a special assembly was held this morning. As the school’s anniversary falls on May 10, which also coincides with Children’s Day, it traditionally combines its anniversary celebrations with Children’s Day activities each year.

During the special assembly, both students and teachers shared their sentiments on the milestone celebration. The event was attended by students, teachers, the school’s principal, and senior members of the management. Principal Mohamed Shukuree presided over the assembly held in celebration of both the school’s anniversary and Children’s Day.

Addressing the gathering, Principal Mohamed Shukuree extended his congratulations to all students and staff on the occasion of the school’s anniversary and Children’s Day. In his remarks, he described Iskandar School as a model institution and encouraged students to lead by example in both academic achievement and discipline.

He further stressed the importance of collective efforts to ensure that Iskandar School remains the “number one” school in every aspect.

The ceremony also recognized long-serving staff members for their dedicated service. Employees with more than 15 years of service were presented with commemorative plaques, while teachers who have served for over 10 years received certificates of recognition. Students and teachers also showcased a variety of performances. 

From its beginnings with 580 students, Iskandar School has now grown into a major educational institution with more than 1,800 students enrolled from Grade 1 to Grade 10. Following the morning program, a separate assembly was also scheduled for students attending the afternoon session.

In his speech, Principal Shukuree also highlighted the importance and significance of Children’s Day.

“The celebration of Children’s Day on May 10 each year began in 1954. Although this is marked as an important day, history shows that children have faced immense challenges in their upbringing,” the principal stated.

He further noted that in the past, the absence of a conducive environment and the impacts of war forced many children to enter the workforce at an early age to earn a living.

Iskandar School first opened on May 10, 1961, under the name Hameediyya Montessori School. At the time, the school’s curriculum was designed to prepare students for primary grades at Aminiya School and Majeediyya School.

In 1961, the school had 185 students and six teachers, including the principal. In October 1970, the institution was renamed Nasiriyya Montessori School. Later, in 1978, the addition of 18 classrooms enabled the school to accommodate a total of 588 students.

The institution was renamed Iskandar Montessori School in 1979, in honor of Maldivian monarch Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar. The school officially adopted the name Iskandar School on January 1, 1980.