MUSCAT : ABA Oman International School proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025 in a memorable ceremony that honored the accomplishments, aspirations, and academic journeys of its newest cohort of global citizens. The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guest of honour, Ahmad Al Harthy, Oman’s motorsport racing champion.

In his inspiring address, Ahmad Al Harthy congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to remain bold in the pursuit of their goals. “To the ABA graduates representing over 30 cultures, your diversity is your superpower. On the track and in life, the best teams challenge each other, bring diverse worldviews, and unlock solutions through shared purpose and perspective. At ABA, you’ve learned to collaborate beyond borders, communicate across cultures, and lead with empathy. That’s what makes you future-ready global citizens.”

In her address to the cohort, Puja Khimji, Chairperson of the ABA Board of Directors, congratulated the graduates and reflected on the deep sense of belonging that defines the ABA community. “As the wife of an ABA alumnus, I can proudly say that ABA is not just a school for our family; it is home. And after today, it remains your home too. Graduating from ABA does not mean leaving it behind – it means becoming part of a family that will always be here for you, supporting and cheering you on,” she said. “At ABA, you have learned to think critically, to care deeply, and to embrace what makes you unique. Together, you represent a world of cultures, perspectives, and possibilities. Care for the world. Make a difference.”

Addressing the graduates, Craig Williamson, ABA Head of School, offered words of wisdom and encouragement, reminding students that this milestone marked not just the end of their school journey, but the beginning of their lifelong impact. “As ABA graduates,” he said, “you are prepared to lead with empathy, think critically, and engage meaningfully with the world around you.”

Simon Walker, Assistant Head of School and High School Principal, reflected on the students’ journey through high school, praising their determination and growth. He highlighted their ability to thrive amidst challenges and emerge as compassionate, capable, and globally minded young adults.

Valedictorians Sarah-Louisa Emmer and Karan Nohut delivered an inspiring joint address. “At ABA, we had the unique privilege of learning alongside peers from around the world. But it’s what we do with that experience that truly matters -fostering real connections, building empathy, and walking out into the world not just with pride in ourselves, but in each other.”

The graduation ceremony also recognized several students for their exceptional achievements. Lester Sanctis received the International Understanding Award for his commitment to promoting intercultural respect and global mindedness within and beyond the ABA community. Yukta Matai was presented with the Philippa Leggate Award for Citizenship in recognition of her unwavering dedication and meaningful contributions to school life. The prestigious Duke of Edinburgh’s International Gold Award, which involves a year of preparation, adventurous journeys, and dedicated service, was awarded to Dylan LeRibeus and Thomas Pinkard-Bourget.

Lester Sanctis and Lucie Slaba were named Male and Female Athletes of the Year, respectively, in recognition of their outstanding athletic performances and leadership as representatives of the ABA Vipers in MESAC and other regional sporting events.

Under the dedicated guidance of University Counsellor Jinane Traboulsi Helou and IB Diploma Coordinator Samantha Cole, ABA graduates have secured placements at leading universities around the world. From University of Toronto, Liverpool, Leeds, Cardiff, Nottingham, King’s College, McGill University, TU Delft, University of Amsterdam, and the University of Groningen, to name a few, graduates are set to pursue a wide range of fields including Aerospace Engineering, Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Cyber security, Environmental Sciences, International Business, Finance, Law, Psychology, Architecture, and Computer Science, among others. These placements stand as a testament to the rigour and relevance of an ABA education, and the exceptional calibre of the Class of 2025.

In addition to these outstanding university acceptances, many students from the Class of 2025 have been awarded a broad range of merit-based scholarships, from $8,000 to $50,000 USD, as well as significant financial aid packages from universities in the US, UK, Canada, and beyond. These awards recognize not only academic excellence but also leadership, creativity, and extracurricular achievements. Notably, Yukta Matai was awarded the highly competitive Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship from the University of Toronto, valued at $250,000 USD. This prestigious honor is granted to only 37 students globally each year and stands as a testament to the exceptional calibre of both the student and the ABA educational experience.

Established in 1987, ABA Oman International School is a leading International Baccalaureate School in Muscat, offering the IB continuum of programmes from early childhood through Grade 12. With a mission to inspire, empower, and educate students to become compassionate, lifelong learners and responsible global citizens, ABA continues to set the standard for academic excellence and international-mindedness in the region. Visit www.abaoman.org to discover The ABA Way.