VILLA COLLEGE CELEBRATES GRADUATION OF 1,237 STUDENTS IN 2 CEREMONIES

Villa College Celebrates Graduation of 1,237 Students in 2 Ceremonies.
Villa College held its much-anticipated graduation ceremony on 28 September 2024 at the Dharubaaruge Rannabandeyri Maalam. A total of 1,237 students graduated across two ceremonies, marking a significant milestone in the academic journey of the graduates.

The morning session saw the conferral of degrees of students from the
**Faculty of Educational Studies,
Faculty of Health Sciences,
Faculty of Shariah and Law,
Gasim Ibrahim School of Business,
and School of Computer Studies. **

During the afternoon session, graduates from the
Center for Postgraduate Studies,
Faculty of Educational Studies,

School of Psychology and Counseling
Faculty of Health Sciences,
Faculty of Shariah and Law,
Gasim Ibrahim School of Business,
and the School of Computer Studies received their degrees.

This year, students graduated from 53 programmes, with 15 of these offered in partnership with the University of the West of England (UWE) and 38 from Villa College’s own programmes. Notably, 71% of the graduates were women, reflecting Villa College’s commitment to gender diversity in education.

Dr. Ali Najeeb, Vice Rector of Villa College, attended both ceremonies and congratulated the graduates, urging them to excel in their industries. "Villa College strives to provide students with the tools to pursue their studies fully," he said, noting that the number of graduates increased by 10% compared to last year.
In his speech, Dr. Ahmed Anwar, Rector of Villa College, emphasised the importance of developing graduate attributes such as knowledge acquisition, continuous improvement, and technical proficiency. He highlighted how these qualities have positively impacted students’ personal and professional growth.

Professor Sir Steve West, Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West of England, also addressed the graduates, expressing his gratitude to Villa College and encouraging students to further their careers. Assad Hammad, graduate representative of the Master of Science in Accounting and Finance, delivered a speech during the UWE ceremony, sharing his educational journey.

The Founder of Villa College, Hon. Dr. Qasim Ibrahim, also addressed the audience, expressing pride in the achievements of the students. He emphasised Villa College’s role in shaping future leaders and encouraged graduates to continue striving for excellence.

The second ceremony was graced by the Minister of Housing, Land, and Urban Development, Dr. Ali Haider Ahmed, who welcomed the graduates and emphasised the importance of further study. He encouraged students to make their mark in their respective fields, reflecting on the institution’s dedication to academic excellence.
During the second session, Graduate Representative Jaufar Mohammed, a Master of Teaching Islamic Studies student, shared his heartfelt experiences at Villa College. He expressed gratitude to the faculty, staff, and the families of graduates, acknowledging the sacrifices made to support students in their academic pursuits.

The vibrant ceremony was a celebration of academic achievement and personal growth, bringing together students, faculty, families, and esteemed guests. Since its establishment, Villa College has graduated over 21,200 students, reinforcing its position as a premier institution for higher education in the Maldives.