Malé, Maldives – President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has extended heartfelt appreciation to Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain, one of the Maldives’ most respected educationists, following his resignation as Chancellor of the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM).
The acknowledgment was made during a special meeting held on Sunday morning at the President’s Office, where President Muizzu praised Dr Zahir’s nearly five decades of service to the State, particularly his transformative role in shaping the nation’s education system.
President Muizzu described Dr Zahir as a visionary leader who played a central role in the development of the national education framework. He commended his leadership in initiating the Government’s Basic Education Programme, establishing community and atoll schools, and spearheading efforts to enhance educational awareness throughout the country.
The President highlighted Dr Zahir’s unique ability to harmonize modern educational goals with Maldivian culture and Islamic values, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and resilient academic system.
In recognition of his immense contributions, President Muizzu presented a formal letter of appreciation, acknowledging Dr Zahir’s role in expanding higher education, both as Chancellor of IUM and earlier as Chancellor of the Maldives National University (MNU).
Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain has served the State for over 49 years, with more than 33 years dedicated specifically to the education sector. His tenure as Minister of Education spanned over a decade, during which he introduced sweeping reforms, enhanced the national curriculum, and strengthened Arabic–Islamic education nationwide.
Dr Zahir was awarded the prestigious Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI) on November 10, 2008, in recognition of his national service. More recently, in 2024, he received the Highest Honour for Service to Maldives Education during the Republic Day celebrations, conferred by President Muizzu.
In his remarks at the meeting, Dr Zahir said it had been a great honour to serve as Chancellor of IUM, and thanked the President for the trust placed in him. He also commended President Muizzu’s commitment to advancing the education sector, expressing confidence in the administration’s efforts to raise national education standards.
Dr Zahir’s retirement marks the conclusion of a storied career in public service—one that leaves behind a legacy of educational excellence and national development.
