Convocation Caps a Historic Year for the Aga Khan University
Princess Zahra Aga Khan and other dignitaries attended Saturday’s festivities as more than 730 students from four countries graduated. Supporters of the University from all around the globe watched the ceremonies live online and in person.
In Nairobi, Princess Zahra Aga Khan spoke on behalf of His Highness the Aga Khan, founder and Chancellor of AKU, saying, “On graduating, you return to a world that is full of daunting challenges but also of endless possibilities.” “Keep embracing opportunities to make a positive impact on your communities and work towards a world that is more accepting of diversity and peace.”
In Pakistan, 391 individuals earned degrees in fields such as nursing, medicine, and teaching; almost 70% of these graduates were female. Kiran Foundation founder Sabina Khatri was the esteemed guest of honor at the University.
In her remarks to the graduating class, Ms. Khatri said, “I cannot help but imagine the great things you will achieve with your knowledge and skills developed during your time at AKU.” She went on to praise the students’ natural abilities and the education they received. Compared to what I have accomplished so far, I am certain that yours may be even more impressive. His Highness the Aga Khan has assisted in the academic success of innumerable students, including Kiran children enrolled at Aga Khan institutions and schools as well as those affiliated with the AKU Examination Board, such as Habib. I would want to use this occasion to thank Him for this.
On March 16, 2023, AKU hosted a celebration in honor of its 40th anniversary. According to Princess Zahra, the University’s 40th year has been one of the most significant in its whole history due to the numerous accomplishments that have been highlighted. More than 3,600 students enrolled, a record high for the University, as four new academic programs welcomed their inaugural students. These include Karachi’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Nairobi’s Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery programs, and Dar es Salaam and Nairobi’s four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs.
A new Aga Khan University Hospital, the first new AKU hospital since 1985, together with student accommodation, an academic center, and 60 acres of land in Uganda have begun construction. The Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, has launched the region’s first fully integrated EHR system. The college established the Arusha Climate and Environmental Research Center in Tanzania.
With the addition of these new programs and facilities, AKU will be able to better educate leaders, generate new knowledge, and provide world-class healthcare and education, according to Princess Zahra.
Almost 20,000 diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate certificates have been bestowed by AKU since its establishment, and President Sulaiman Shahabuddin referred to the occasion as a “crowning moment” for the attendees. In his address, he detailed the goals and objectives of the University’s new five-year strategic plan. Among these goals are the following: increasing the University’s research capacity in mental health, climate change, and other areas; adding more healthcare providers to the AKU health system; strengthening ties between the University and public and private organizations both domestically and internationally; and maintaining and improving the University’s academic and health care accreditation.
It is due mostly to His Highness the Aga Khan—the university’s founder, chancellor, and principal donor—that AKU has accomplished so much in its forty years of existence, President Shahabuddin stated. “Through His Highness’s vision, we are guided and inspired to make bold decisions that keep AKU at the forefront of innovation, quality, and impact.”
In recognition of Zehra Amanullah’s exceptional academic performance, the School of Nursing and Midwifery has presented her with the Outstanding Graduate Award. Moreover, she was presented with the Nursing Practice Award.