From vision to reality: IAID's partnership with LCME

A shared journey of excellence, celebrating 25 years of Qatar's IAID Performing Arts Academy

Twenty-five years ago, IAID was founded on a simple yet powerful belief: that music can transcend borders, cultures and expectations. What began as a vision in the heart of Qatar has evolved into one of the region's most impactful and respected music education journeys.

At the core of this success lies IAID's enduring partnership with LCME. Established at a time when Qatar was still perceived internationally as a small and emerging market, the collaboration required conviction and courage. Understandably, questions were raised about whether such a partnership could be viable or sustainable. What numbers could not measure, however, was vision.

With clarity of purpose and unwavering belief in his students, IAID's Founder and Director, Rajesh Jadhav, was referred to LCME. That referral marked a turning point. In 2008, the then Director of Examinations, Professor Dr John Howard, visited Qatar, an event that laid the foundation for a strong and enduring partnership.

IAID believed not only in the potential of Qatar but in the power of structured, high-quality performance education to unlock talent and transform lives. Over time, that belief proved decisive. Today, IAID Qatar stands proudly as one of the largest public exam centres of LCME in the Middle East and globally.

Defining milestones: key achievements over 25 years

Among IAID's many proud moments, one milestone stands out as historic: the first LCME exam session conducted at IAID in 2009, examined by Dr Andrew McBirnie, now LCME Chief Examiner. Reflecting on that session, Dr McBirnie remarked, "The students were very well prepared, and the quality of their performances was outstanding."

This early endorsement set the tone for what would become a consistently high standard of achievement. Since then, thousands of IAID students have successfully completed LCME exams, from entry levels through to diploma qualifications, with many progressing to higher education and professional careers in music.

Another defining moment came in 2025, when Professor Dr John Howard returned to Qatar for an exam session, reflecting on the growth he had witnessed over the years. He shared, "It is a delight to come back to Qatar on this occasion. There is now quite a long history, and a developing one. We are seeing more candidates than ever, with a great deal of enthusiasm and interest. For me, to be able to be part of that is a wonderful thing."

Lessons learned: reflections for educators and exam centres

Twenty-five years of music education have offered IAID lessons that extend far beyond syllabuses and assessments.

First, belief in students is non-negotiable. When educators expect excellence, students rise to meet it. Second, quality must always come before quantity. Sustainable growth is rooted in strong pedagogy and thoughtful progression. Third, partnerships matter. Aligning with an exam board like LCME, one that values rigour, progression and international standards, elevates not only students, but institutions as a whole.

Empowering growth through collaboration

LCME exams have played a pivotal role in shaping IAID's academic framework and student development, with structured progression, performance-based assessments, and international benchmarking playing a significant role in raising standards across the academy.

Through this framework, students develop strong technical foundations, performance confidence, and clear academic and professional pathways. Teachers, in turn, are inspired to continually refine their methodologies, ensuring instruction meets global expectations while remaining culturally inclusive.

Reflecting on the partnership, Ms Marianne Indrinal, Associate Director of IAID and its official representative, shared, "What began as a working relationship has evolved into a strong partnership grounded in shared values, open communication, and a common vision for long-term impact. We look forward to further strengthening this collaboration and expanding the positive outcomes we can achieve together."

The spirit of IAID

As IAID celebrates its silver jubilee, one spirit resonates across every classroom, rehearsal, and performance space: passion for music and education, pride in shared achievements, and positivity—the belief that every learner can succeed.

Each certificate earned represents not only academic success but a life enriched by music.

Reflecting on the journey, Founder and Director Rajesh Jadhav concludes, "When IAID began, we did not measure success by numbers alone, but by impact—on our students and on the wider Qatar community. Twenty-five years later, I am proud not just of how far we have come, but of the lives transformed through music. Our journey with LCME proves that when vision meets dedication, even the boldest dreams can find their voice."

About IAID Performing Arts

IAID welcomes learners of all ages and backgrounds who want to develop their skills, pursue internationally recognised qualifications, and become part of a vibrant creative community.

To learn more, please visit www.iaidonline.org.

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