Alhamdulillah: A Journey of Service
Alhamdulillah
Today was a very special day in my life.
I was honoured to receive the Public Service Award in recognition of more than 40 years of service to the Government of the Maldives.
To be honest, I never imagined that I would one day receive an award like this. Throughout my career, I never worked for awards or recognition. That was never my goal. I simply wanted to do my work well and serve through education.
When I looked at the medal today, I did not think about myself. I thought about the many people who have been part of my journey.
Where It All Began
More than forty years ago, I entered a classroom as a young teacher.
Since then, I have been given many opportunities. I have worked as a teacher, taken on different responsibilities, and later served as a school leader. My journey in educational leadership has taken me to several wonderful schools across the Maldives. I had the privilege of serving as Head of School at Maradhoo Feydhoo School, Meemu Atoll School, GA. Atoll School, and GDh. Atoll Education Centre. Each of these schools holds a special place in my heart and taught me valuable lessons about community, resilience, and the transformative power of education.
However, most of my years in public service have been spent at Irushadhiyya School, which has truly been my second home. But one thing has never changed throughout all these years. I still enjoy being with children. I still enjoy working with teachers. I still believe that education changes lives.
People sometimes ask what my biggest achievement is.
It is not this award.
It is seeing my students succeed. It is watching them receive awards on stage. It is meeting former students who are now serving our country in many different ways. It is seeing my school earn the trust and respect of the community. Those moments have always meant more to me than any medal.
My Irushadhiyya Family
Most of my years in public service have been spent at Irushadhiyya School.
The school has been my second home for many years. I have been fortunate to work with wonderful teachers, supportive parents, dedicated staff, and amazing students. Whatever I have achieved, I have never achieved alone.
My Family
There is another group of people I can never thank enough—my family.
For that, I will always be grateful.
What I Have Learned
People sometimes think that being a school leader means being the person who has all the answers.
I have never believed that.
I have always seen myself as a member of the team. I have learned from teachers, support staff, parents, students, and fellow school leaders. My office door has always been open because good ideas can come from anyone. Listening has helped me more than talking.
Even after all these years, I still believe there is something new to learn every day.
To Young Teachers
If I can leave one message for young teachers and future school leaders, it is this.
❤️ Love what you do.
Be honest.
Respect people.
Keep learning.
And never forget that every child who enters your classroom is trusting you with a part of their future.
If you do your work sincerely, people may forget your name one day. But they will never forget how you made them feel or how you helped them grow.
Finally
I thank Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) for giving me the opportunity to serve for more than forty years. Every good thing in my life has come through His mercy and blessings.
To everyone who has been part of my journey—my teachers, colleagues, students, parents, friends, family, and the Irushadhiyya School community—thank you.
Alhamdulillah for every opportunity to serve.