President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has conferred the Highest Honour for Service to Maldives Education to Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain, Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI), for his exceptional contributions to the education sector of the Maldives.
The prestigious award was presented during this year’s Republic Day ceremony, recognising Dr Zahir Hussain’s lifelong dedication to advancing education in the nation.
Dr Zahir Hussain’s distinguished career began following his higher education at Al-Azhar University in Egypt, after which he returned to the Maldives and began teaching at Aminiya School. His expertise led him to a series of prominent roles in the education sector, most notably as Minister of Education. During his tenure, Dr Zahir Hussain oversaw significant milestones, including the establishment of the Science Education Centre in 1979 and the implementation of the foundational Basic Education Project.
Serving as Education Minister for over a decade, Dr Zahir Hussain later held roles such as Minister in the President’s Office and Minister of Youth and Sports. In addition, he served as a Member of Parliament, appointed by the President, where he contributed to the nation’s legislative agenda.
An accomplished author, Dr Zahir Hussain was an active member of the committee responsible for translating the Holy Quran into Dhivehi. He also authored several Friday sermons, and contributed articles to the Islamic publication ‘Dheenuge Magu’, issued by the President’s Office. In recognition of his public service and journalism contributions, he received the National Award of Recognition in 1989, the Minivan25 National Award, and the Alimas Galan journalism award.
In 2001, Dr Zahir Hussain earned a PhD in Theology and Philosophy from Malaysia, subsequently receiving the President’s Award for Special Achievement. His dedication was further recognised on 10th November 2008, when he was first awarded the Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI).
Currently serving as Chancellor of the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) since 2019, Dr Zahir Hussain’s remarkable career spans 48 years, with over 32 years dedicated to the development of education in the Maldives.
