World Heritage volunteers from UNESCO visit the Academy

On 2 October, World Heritage volunteers visited the Aga Khan Academy Dhaka as part of the "World Heritage Volunteers Programme 2023" of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to see the sustainable and environment-friendly infrastructures at the Academy. This programme encourages "young people to undertake concrete actions and play an active role in the protection, preservation and promotion of World Heritage," according to the World Heritage Convention site.

The visit started with an introduction by Head of the Academy Ms Suvina Shunglu and other members of the Academy's staff. The visitors then toured the campus to observe the architectural aspects of the buildings. While passing the Maidan, they stopped for a while to appreciate the greenery and commended the open space as it was complimenting the overall learning environment of the Academy.     

During the tour, External Relations Officer of the Aga Khan Development Network Ms Azmina Jeva – along with one of the Academy's architects, Mr Rafiqul Anam, and Ms Suvina – explained to the volunteers the architectural features of the Academy.    

“The Aga Khan Academy Dhaka is a beautiful place to be,” Ms Azmina said. “Our guests liked the synergy of natural light and air in the classrooms and the openness of the buildings. They were impressed to see how innovative architecture ensures a learning-friendly environment for the students.” 

Following this, an engaging session took place with the Diploma Programme students, in which the guests asked them if they found architecture an attractive profession.  

“Architecture is fun," one student said. "The Academy's campus allows us to think freely in its open spaces and natural environment."