Aga Khan University Graduates Over 400 Students, Princess Zahra Becomes Pro-Chancellor
The Aga Khan University recently celebrated its 38th Convocation in Pakistan, a landmark event where 461 Aga Khan University graduates received degrees across 18 diverse programmes. A pivotal moment included the formal installation of Princess Zahra Aga Khan as the University’s first-ever Pro-Chancellor. In this influential position, Princess Zahra will strategically guide AKU, reinforcing its ongoing mission to enhance the quality of human life and contribute significantly to societal progress.
His Highness the Aga Khan, AKU’s esteemed Chancellor, delivered a profound message. He underscored that both the institution and its graduates carry “an extraordinary responsibility and an extraordinary opportunity.” This unique role involves innovating, sharing, and applying knowledge in ways that genuinely improve human well-being. Consequently, AKU instills a strong sense of purpose and ethical leadership in every student.
Advancing Education and National Development in Pakistan
This year marked a significant milestone with the graduation of the first cohort from the Institute for Educational Development’s Bachelor of Education programme. This innovative curriculum offers a rigorous combination of academic study and practical, field-based learning. Furthermore, it meticulously prepares these Aga Khan University graduates to teach effectively within various educational settings throughout Pakistan, addressing critical pedagogical needs.
Princess Zahra Aga Khan, AKU’s new Pro-Chancellor, highlighted the University’s expanding reach. She remarked, “The University’s geographic expansion has seen AKU’s presence expand across Pakistan, into more cities and villages than ever before.” From bustling Karachi to serene Matiari, and from vibrant Lahore to picturesque Gilgit, AKU’s dedicated healthcare professionals, educators, and researchers are deeply woven into the fabric of people’s lives, creating widespread positive impact.
Bridging Gaps and Empowering Future Leaders
The Aga Khan University remains steadfast in addressing Pakistan’s critical development challenges. This unwavering commitment is demonstrated through its focus on both equitable access to education and uncompromising academic excellence. Notably, women constituted nearly 70 percent of this graduating class. Therefore, the University actively works to close the persistent gender gap in a nation where millions of girls continue to face barriers to schooling, fostering greater societal equity.
Valedictorian Muhammad Taha Nasim eloquently thanked AKU’s faculty. He emphasized how they challenged Aga Khan University graduates to “reach our highest standards” while simultaneously instilling the profound lesson that “excellence without empathy is empty.” Such values cultivate compassionate and effective leaders for Pakistan’s future.
Significantly, Aga Khan University graduates are playing a crucial role in filling vital workforce gaps nationwide. For instance, Pakistan struggles with a severe nurse-to-population ratio of merely 5.2 per 10,000. In direct response, AKU alumni now hold senior leadership positions in approximately 80 schools of nursing and midwifery, substantially strengthening the national healthcare system. Their influence truly transforms the sector.
Commitment to Research and Student Success
In 2025, AKU successfully secured over USD$100 million in research funding. This impressive achievement reflects the high regard global institutions hold for the University’s research capabilities and scholarly contributions. Furthermore, a widely recognized study by a Stanford University researcher identified 27 AKU faculty members among the top two percent of scientists globally, highlighting their profound intellectual impact.
Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, President of AKU, shared insights on the promising nature of Pakistan’s youth. He remarked, “Pakistan’s young people are inclusive, comfortable across faiths and perspectives, and aware that a divided society cannot meet shared challenges.” Moreover, he underscored their digital fluency, viewing technology as a powerful opportunity—to expand knowledge, build essential skills, and apply learning in practical, impactful ways.
To ensure access for talented students regardless of their financial circumstances, the University provides extensive financial assistance. During the last academic year alone, 72 percent of students across all classes and programmes in Pakistan received crucial support. Consequently, AKU fosters an incredibly inclusive and accessible learning environment, truly nurturing future generations.
Acknowledging Excellence and Service
Several outstanding individuals received Best Graduate Awards for their undergraduate programmes, celebrating exceptional academic achievement. These honorees include:
- Noorish Khan (Dental Hygiene)
- Syeda Tasmiya Mohiuddin (Education)
- Dr. Hamzah Jehanzeb (Medicine)
- Sara Karim Sadruddin (Nursing)
Their successes exemplify the high standards and dedicated support provided by AKU.
The ceremony also paid tribute to Shamsh Kassim-Lakha, the Founding President of AKU and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Central Asia, a sister institution within the Aga Khan Development Network. Furthermore, the University conferred Awards of Distinction upon faculty and staff, recognizing their sustained contributions to innovation, groundbreaking research, and exemplary leadership. Professor Emeritus Mushtaq Ahmed notably received the prestigious President’s Medal, one of AKU’s highest honors, acknowledging his extraordinary service as an eminent surgeon and academic leader who inspired many.
