President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has paid tribute to the remarkable lifetime service of Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain, outgoing Chancellor of the Islamic University of Maldives, describing his contributions to education as sincere, immeasurable, and nation-shaping.

Meeting Dr Zahir Hussain this morning at the President’s Office, the President expressed deep gratitude for his decades of dedication to the Maldivian education sector. He highlighted Dr Zahir’s pivotal leadership in advancing national education reforms, including his role in spearheading the Basic Education Programme, establishing community schools and atoll education centres, and strengthening public awareness on the importance of education.

Dr Zahir Hussain, who described his tenure as Chancellor of IUM as a great honour, thanked the President for the trust placed in him and commended the Administration’s efforts to further enhance the quality of education in the Maldives.

In recognition of his distinguished service, President Muizzu presented Dr Zahir with a letter of appreciation, noting his lasting impact on higher education during his time as Chancellor of both the Islamic University of Maldives and the Maldives National University, as well as his more than ten years as Minister of Education. His work in modernising the education system, integrating Maldivian values into curricula, and expanding Arabic-Islamic education nationwide was particularly acknowledged.

With 49 years and 9 months of service to the State, including over 33 years in education, Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain’s legacy stands as an enduring inspiration. A recipient of the Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI) and the Highest Honour for Service to Maldivian Education, his lifelong commitment continues to shape generations and the future of the nation.