Dubai School Mourns Beloved Teacher Anjana Sanalkumar After 33 Years of Service

A school community in Dubai is mourning the loss of Anjana Sanalkumar, a beloved teacher and examinations officer who devoted 33 years of her professional life to GEMS Education.

Her passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from colleagues, friends and members of the school community, who remember her as a kind, compassionate and dedicated professional.

Anjana passed away in Dubai after battling lung cancer.

During her long career at The Westminster School, she became much more than a colleague to many people.

Her caring nature, willingness to help others and positive attitude made her a trusted friend and an important part of the school community.

Memorial Scholarship to Honour Anjana Sanalkumar

GEMS Education plans to establish the Anjana Sanalkumar Memorial Scholarship at The Westminster School in recognition of her long service and contribution to education.

The initiative will provide a lasting tribute to an educator whose dedication touched the lives of many students and colleagues.

A memorial service was also organised and streamed online, allowing people who could not attend in person to join in remembering Anjana.

The gathering gave friends, colleagues and family members an opportunity to celebrate her life and reflect on the memories they shared with her.

School Leaders Recognise Her Outstanding Contribution

School leaders paid tribute to Anjana, describing her as a committed professional who consistently went beyond her responsibilities to support students and the wider school community.

Throughout her 33-year career, she earned the trust and respect of parents, colleagues and students through her dedication and approachable nature.

The Westminster School's leadership also expressed condolences to her family, friends and loved ones.

Her contribution to the institution had become an important part of its culture, reflecting the lasting relationships she built during her years in education.

A Caring Personality Remembered by Colleagues

Anjana was remembered as a compassionate person who always tried to encourage others and lift their spirits.

Colleagues described her as approachable and understanding, someone who made time to listen and offered support whenever it was needed.

Her positive attitude and willingness to help made her a valued presence in the workplace.

For many, she was among those rare colleagues who offered genuine encouragement and made difficult days easier to manage.

Friends Recall More Than Two Decades of Memories

Several colleagues shared emotional memories of their long-standing friendships with Anjana.

One colleague reflected on a friendship spanning 21 years, recalling their conversations and the positive energy she brought to everyday life.

The colleague said those moments would be deeply missed.

Another member of the school community described Anjana as family rather than simply a colleague.

Their 21-year professional journey was filled with encouragement, laughter and mutual support.

Anjana's ability to brighten the mood in the office was among the qualities that made her so memorable.

These personal tributes highlight the close bonds she developed with the people around her.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, she was valued for her generosity, warmth and readiness to stand by others during challenging times.

Anjana Sanalkumar Leaves a Lasting Legacy at The Westminster School

Anjana's 33 years with GEMS Education reflect a long-standing commitment to teaching, examinations and student support.

Her dedication to her work, combined with her kindness towards colleagues and students, helped her build a legacy that extended beyond her professional role.

The planned memorial scholarship will honour her contribution to education, while the memories shared by friends and colleagues will continue to keep her spirit alive within the school community.

As The Westminster School remembers Anjana Sanalkumar, she will be cherished for her compassion, positive outlook and the meaningful connections she created throughout her life and career.