Student Exchange Programme
Students in Grade 9 can spend a semester at another Academy in the network, continuing their studies uninterrupted. As they make new friends in novel surroundings, they will experience the cultural diversity and range of perspectives needed to contribute to a multicultural world.
“The education that the Academies offer will engender a pluralist worldview. It is one which values differences of outlook, ethnicity and religion and culture, yes in the interest of justice and fairness, but also because a temperament receptive to pluralism helps creativity, curiosity and inquiry, to thrive in sharing the best human knowledge and talent from whatever individual, or group, it originates.”
His Late Highness Aga Khan IV
Maputo, June 2004
What Do Students Gain?
With structured activities ranging from cultural nights to safaris, plus time with host families and lots of opportunities to socialise, students pack their time abroad with memorable experiences.
Exchange participants build their confidence, independence and intercultural communication skills, helping with their upcoming transition to university or career. They increase their understanding of their own and other cultural identities, adapting to new settings and working with diverse groups
They are supported throughout with pre-departure and reintegration sessions, weekly discussions, residential parents and academic advisors.
Exchange students spend a semester at another Academy without their Diploma Programme being interrupted.
Students have the opportunity to understand other cultures and work with diverse groups.
Students on the Exchange strengthen their communications skills and build their own independence.
While visiting other campuses, students learn about the history of their host Academy’s cities.
Students learn local crafts, such as weaving “makuti” or thatched roofs from palm leaves in Mombasa.
Exchange students take trips during the midterm break, exploring more of their host country.
“My son came back from the Exchange replenished with first-hand knowledge about the country he went to – the people, culture, customs, social and economic life and their challenges. It has enhanced his awareness and communication skills and made him self-reliant, ready for the changes. We are very excited about the outcome.”
Rashida Zaidi
Parent of an Exchange student, AKA Hyderabad
A Growing Programme
“While a term away from home may seem long, time flies during the Student Exchange Programme. Soon, it’s less about homesickness and more about growth, discovery and pushing personal limits.
For many students who travel to another Academy, they’re stepping into a new country and school culture for the first time. Day students, especially, adjust not only to new surroundings but also to dorm life. For some, the Exchange is their first flight abroad – an unforgettable milestone. Those who host visiting students also experience new perspectives as they welcome peers from different cultures and build lasting friendships."
In every case, the Exchange builds confidence, resilience and pluralism. Students return home with a global mindset, stronger character and a deeper appreciation for their own identity and the diverse world around them.”
Eva Muriuki, International Student Exchange Programme Manager
Exploring Diverse Cultures
“Getting to meet new people during the Student Exchange Programme in Hyderabad, India was really interesting for me. I was very curious and excited to learn more about the diverse cultures there. There was a lot of sharing of values between everyone as we were all getting to know and understand each other. We were able to do this easily because of the core value of pluralism that is part of our everyday life across the Academies.
This experience was extremely unique for me as it was my first time to get on a plane and to travel out of Kenya and Africa. During the October break, we visited some historical sites in India, which was insightful. I also got an opportunity to participate in the Model United Nations at AKA Hyderabad, something I had never considered doing but I ended up really enjoying.”
Mwanapwani Said, Class of 2023, AKA Mombasa
Venturing Out of My Comfort Zone
“Adventure always scared me until I went for the Student Exchange Programme at AKA Mombasa. Taking on the challenge of adapting to a new place and building resilience turned into an opportunity of a lifetime
Immersing myself in a new culture, learning a new language and making new friends were incredible experiences. I explored Mombasa through visits to the ocean conservation centre, historic forts, ruins, national parks, and local villages.
During the October break, I stayed with a host family who welcomed me like one of their own. They introduced me to local customs and even included me in their family reunion – it truly felt like a home away from home.
At the end of the Exchange, we did a capstone project, where we shared our experiences about Kenyan culture and explored how identity and culture connect across both local and home contexts.”
Ayaan Ajaney, Grade 10, AKA Hyderabad
