First Global Convocation 2021
In May 2021, during the first global convocation of Aga Khan University (AKU),
His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, founder and then-Chancellor of the
university, stated:
“Aga Khan University has earned its significant place in society by providing
medical consultation, staff training, working with teachers and schools, raising
awareness through media and journalism, patient care, and life-saving efforts.”
He also announced the appointment of Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin as President of
AKU. Dr. Shahabuddin began his career at AKU 35 years ago alongside his wife,
Zeenat. He later served for a decade as Regional CEO of Aga Khan Health Services
in East Africa. Prince Karim praised his leadership, dedication, and lifelong
commitment to learning.
Prince Rahim Aga Khan –April 2022
In April 2022, the current spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, Prince Rahim Aga
Khan addressed the escalating climate crisis in his monumental speech,
emphasizing its severe impact on South Asia:
“Over the last decade, 50% of South Asia’s population has been affected by one
or more climate-related disasters. Between 1998 and 2019, Pakistan alone faced
153 extreme weather events, resulting in nearly 10,000 deaths and displacing 30
million people. Floods in August 2020 damaged hospitals and led to surges in
malaria, respiratory infections, and digestive diseases.”
Prince Rahim also warned of the long-term implications of climate change on
agriculture and public health, noting that crop yields in South Asia could
decrease by up to 30%, while mosquito-borne diseases are expected to increase.
He called for AKU to take an active role in mitigation and adaptation efforts,
alongside the ongoing work of the Aga Khan Foundation and Aga Khan Agency for
Habitat.
“Climate change’s deep impact on human health—including respiratory and
cardiovascular illnesses, malnutrition, and infectious diseases—is a global
challenge. We must act with urgency and foresight.” He further remarked.
Even before assuming his new responsibilities, Prince Rahim had been a vocal
advocate for climate action, demonstrating strong foresight and a deep
commitment to environmental causes. Under his guidance, the Aga Khan Development
Network (AKDN) continues to serve as a model of sustainable, community-led
development.
Pakistan is fortunate to host one of the largest agencies of the Aga Khan
Development Network (AKDN), known as Aga Khan University. This institution has
been specifically tasked by His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan to address
climate change issues that can positively impact society. Pakistan frequently
faces natural disasters, such as floods, and despite having a national disaster
management plan, these challenges have not been effectively mitigated. The
government has an opportunity to collaborate with AKDN and Aga Khan University
to develop innovative models that can be integrated into the national disaster
management plan, serving as a catalyst for reducing the impact of future natural
disasters.
March 2023 – AKUCelebrating 40 Years of Excellence
On March 18, 2023, Aga Khan University celebrated its 40th anniversary with
simultaneous events in Pakistan, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The Karachi event
was attended by Princess Zahra Aga Khan, who delivered a message from Prince
Karim Aga Khan. The Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, also graced
the occasion.
According to statistics, 777 students graduated from 19 diploma and degree
programs at the global campuses of Aga Khan University, bringing the total
number of diplomas and degrees awarded by the university since its inception to
over 19,000. This includes more than 4,500 diplomas and degrees conferred in
East Africa. In Pakistan, the School of Nursing and Midwifery has graduated
5,000 students in nursing, medicine, education, media, and communication.
A New Era of Leadership – February 2025
Upon the death of His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the spiritual
leadership was passed on to his son, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan.
Education services play a crucial role in human development and the prosperity
of society. His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan, following in the footsteps of
his father and embodying the same spirit, places a strong emphasis on the
importance of education for the community.
On February 26, 2025, 473 women and men were awarded degrees from Aga Khan
University in the presence of Princess Zahra Aga Khan. On this occasion, a
tribute was paid to the university’s founder and first Chancellor, the late
Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, and the university’s administration welcomed His
Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan as the new Chancellor and Princess Zahra Aga Khan
as Pro Chancellor.
Students were awarded Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees across 16
disciplines—over 70% of the graduates were women. The president AKU, Dr.
Sulaiman Shahabuddin emphasized Prince Karim’s vision of creating opportunities
for millions through education and development:
“Our founding Chancellor once said his goal was to create a better life for
himself and his family. Through AKU and the AKDN, he extended that opportunity
to millions.”
Princess Zahra Aga Khan, AKU’s longest-serving Trustee, was appointed Pro
Chancellor by Prince Rahim Aga Khan. Zakir Mahmood, Chairman of the Board of
Trustees, noted that her deep understanding of AKU’s vision and her close
involvement in its development made her ideally suited for this role.
In her remarks, Princess Zahra Aga Khan shared:
“It is a great joy for me that my brother, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan,
has become Chancellor in line with my father’s wishes and the university’s
founding charter. It is a tremendous honor to serve as Pro Chancellor and to
help sustain this remarkable institution.”
The event concluded a week-long celebration across AKU campuses in East Africa,
including Kampala, Nairobi, and Dar es Salaam. These ceremonies marked the
awarding of AKU’s 5,000th degree in East Africa and reinforced the university’s
ongoing regional impact.
A Legacy of Impact and Innovation
Aga Khan University continues to set new benchmarks in education, research, and
service delivery. Its recent partnership with the Gilgit-Baltistan government to
launch the Education Fellows Program is already yielding transformative results
across the region. This initiative reflects AKU’s deep commitment to community
development and quality education.
The flagship Education Fellows Program has significantly strengthened teacher
capacity in Gilgit-Baltistan—marking a first-of-its-kind effort in the region.
Its success is resonating not only among educators but also in improved student
outcomes. The program’s impact serves as a powerful model that other provinces
can emulate to achieve similar progress in educational development.