A bold vision took root in Bangladesh 25 years ago – a vision that changed the course of the education industry through academic excellence, innovation, and perspectives. Today, that vision has been transformed into a remarkable journey of a school. International School Dhaka (ISD)  embodies the highest standard of learning in the country. As it celebrates its 25-year milestone, ISD is mapping a new course with a pioneering vision. It's a framework designed to drive education into the future while honouring its legacy.

In an era when traditional rote learning dominated the classrooms of Bangladesh, ISD brought a revolutionary approach. The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum has had a significant impact on the education sector around the world, especially in Dhaka. With its emphasis on critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and real-world applications, the IB curriculum altered the way students learn and prepare for challenges in an interconnected world.

Within 25 years, thousands of graduates have carried this ethos of innovation and curiosity into some of the world's most prestigious universities and companies. It's a testament to the curriculum's effectiveness in shaping young people's futures.

The IB curriculum is divided into three phases: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). From nurturing young, inquisitive minds in PYP to developing well-rounded young adults in DP, the curriculum consistently delivers excellence. Each phase, whether during the time of exploration in MYP or intensive research in DP, continues to equip the learners with skills to thrive in life.

The IB's uniqueness lies in its focus on relevance. For example, instead of isolating students with classroom lessons, the programme encourages learners to relate their studies to global challenges. Learning in the curriculum goes beyond textbooks. Students are designing robots, debating ethical dilemmas, or analysing environmental data. The curriculum is steeped in interdisciplinary learning and community engagement, so students don't merely memorise facts. They learn to discover their passions and develop skills that last for a lifetime.

Now, let's dive into what makes ISD stand out in the country's competitive academic landscape, aside from the benefits of IB. Over the past 25 years, the school has continuously raised the bar of education by introducing cutting-edge programmes that are redefining learning. It's also accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). These accreditations are given to those schools that provide high-quality education.

The school created opportunities for robotics enthusiasts to dive into the intricacies of artificial intelligence through Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy. They brought official coaches from Barca Academy (FC Barcelona) to sharpen the football skills of the student-athletes. Aspiring swimmers got the opportunity to benefit from the AUSTSwim-certified programme. Language enthusiasts thrived under the second language diploma and became bilingual citizens of the world.

It is this international outlook that perfectly underlines the school's new mission, to prepare students for global citizenship and academic success through a dynamic IB curriculum, supported by a diverse community. Innovative learning is at the heart of its vision, supported by the values of well-being, kindness, and responsibility – all absolutely critical for a fairer and more peaceful world.

Besides such remarkable initiatives, the school has also launched scholarships to make a transformative education accessible to smart and curious kids, regardless of background. The scholarships are offered to students from grades 9 to 11 who are aged between 14 and 17. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to co-curricular activities. Based on their academic record, students will receive a full waiver on admission fees and between a 50 and 90 percent scholarship on their school fees. These scholarships are more than financial aid; they are the gateway for remarkable students to join a community that values diversity and excellence.

All these initiatives, coupled with an international teaching staff from over 20 countries and a student body from 33 nations, create a melting pot of cultures, perspectives, and ideas. Such a diverse community enables learners to develop a distinctive worldview, which aids them in navigating any kind of challenges and addressing global issues conveniently. ISD successfully builds a community where people, regardless of their background, find a place to belong and thrive.

ISD's story is about transformation. For the past 25 years, the school has blended local culture with global expertise and created a space where students can grow and excel throughout life. It showcased that learning is the most powerful when it's purposeful. The school has been a beacon of innovation and excellence throughout the years. As the school moves forward with its bold strategy of ISD 2.0, it invites the community to join it on its journey to redefine the education sector further. With its unwavering dedication and pioneering spirit, ISD is poised to lead the next generation into a world of endless possibilities.