Global vision, local roots

Sandy Mackenzie
on Leading the Aga Khan Academy Dhaka

After nearly three decades in education, Sandy Mackenzie has seen classrooms on almost every continent from teaching mathematics in his native Scotland to leading schools in China, Denmark, Senegal, and the United States. Over the years, he's learned one thing: the best schools don't just prepare students for exams. They prepare them for life.

This belief now guides Sandy Mackenzie in his role as Head of the Aga Khan Academy Dhaka, where he is shaping a generation of thoughtful, ethical, and locally grounded leaders. In an interview with The Daily Star, he reflected on his journey, philosophy, and how the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is redefining learning in Bangladesh.

"Bangladesh is an emerging nation with energy and progress," Sandy said. "The Academy's mission, values, and global network strongly resonated with me. It combines the stability of family-oriented schools, the collaboration of a wider network, and the purpose of a not-for-profit mission. That balance made joining the Academy compelling."

"Education is most meaningful when it teaches empathy — when students learn to understand before they choose to lead."

His leadership philosophy centres on what he calls "learning through empathy and understanding." Having worked across continents, he believes cultural awareness is key to meaningful education. "Working in diverse countries taught me to navigate different cultures and communication styles," he said. "That experience helps me lead a diverse staff in Bangladesh with inclusion and equity."

Teaching students to lead with purpose, not pride

To him, education must go beyond knowledge – it must build character. "Pluralistic leadership means accepting, showing compassion for and working collaboratively with people different from ourselves; ethical leadership means producing graduates who lead responsibly rather than pursuing success at others' expense," Sandy explained.

He believes these values are not confined to classroom discussions but lived through daily practice. From student-led initiatives such as World Teachers Day to community projects that encourage dialogue and reflection, the Academy emphasizes service, empathy and collective responsibility. "We want students to be servant leaders – academically strong, yet committed to the common good," Sandy added.

Redefining learning through the IB framework

The Aga Khan Academy Dhaka follows the IB curriculum, which puts inquiry, reflection, and global awareness at the core of learning. "The IB places the learner at the centre," said Sandy. "It develops analytical, creative, and collaborative skills that matter in a world where knowledge is everywhere."

At the senior level, the IB Diploma Programme bridges school and university through both academic depth and personal exploration. "Students study six subjects, complete an extended essay, and take theory of knowledge," he explained. "It builds research experience, critical thinking, and a global outlook that universities value."

Through this approach, the Academy helps students become independent learners — confident thinkers who can question, connect, and apply their understanding to real-world challenges.

Beyond just grades Developing the whole person

For Sandy, learning doesn't stop at the classroom door. The Academy places equal importance on students' emotional well-being and creative growth. "Students learn best when they feel psychologically safe," he said. "We foster an environment where mistakes are part of learning."

Each student has an advisor, with counsellors available when needed. Lessons on emotional intelligence, digital citizenship, and mental health are built into the curriculum. "Given modern pressures like social media, we teach students to manage stress and protect their wellbeing," he added.

This approach extends beyond academics. "Extracurricular activities create lasting memories and transferable skills," Sandy said. "Our arts and sports programmes build teamwork, confidence, and resilience."

Through the IB's Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) component, students collaborate with local communities  while connecting learning with empathy, service, and real-world experience.

Preparing young leaders for a changing world

Sandy views technology and artificial intelligence as powerful tools if used with integrity. "We embrace technology as a learning tool," he said. "Students create digital projects like videos and podcasts, and we have clear policies so they learn to use AI responsibly."

Teachers, too, are lifelong learners. The Academy invests in continuous professional development, mentoring new Bangladeshi educators through its international network. "Ongoing training builds sustainable, locally led expertise," Sandy explained.

As the conversation closed, he added, "Education must go beyond basic skills. It should spark creativity, curiosity, and honest inquiry. We want every graduate to leave here courageous, compassionate, and ready to contribute to a changing world."