The insightful and forward-thinking great personality، the Aga Khan had a vision that was conceived several decades ago. Today, the radiance of his wisdom is spread around the globe, where downtrodden strata of society grappling with challenging circumstances are benefiting from his enlightened programs. The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) was founded in 1967, which flourished into a tall and shady tree.
Following the triumphs of the esteemed Aga Khan Foundation, the Aga Khan continued to raise additional institutions bringing them under the widely recognized Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). This network has cast a far-reaching influence, with ten institutions established under its umbrella, whose examples are given amongst the nations of the world. Among these institutions, the Aga Khan University has been a leading force in spreading knowledge and enlightenment for many years.
The Aga Khan University and Hospital is a prestigious and renowned institution in Pakistan that has provided education to numerous students, enabling them to become competent doctors motivated with a sense of patriotism and dedication to people at large. Patients from remote regions of the country seek solace and medical attention from this esteemed hospital when they have lost all hope elsewhere, the institution welcomes them with open arms, providing them with quality care and support.
The Aga Khan University has the distinction of promoting gender equality among its 13,000 employees in Pakistan, with a near balance of women and men. In addition to producing doctors and nurses, the university also provides professional training to medical educators. To date, the university has awarded over 19,000 degrees, diplomas, and certificates, with two-thirds of the recipients being women globally. This year, 777 students had the privilege of being recipient of degrees by Princess Zahra Aga Khan at the prestigious Convocation.
In addition to its academic achievements, the Aga Khan University has made a tremendous impact on healthcare in East Africa and South Asia, treating over two million patients annually. Furthermore, 52 out of Pakistan’s 60 nursing colleges are led by accomplished nursing graduates from the university, a testimony of the significant contributions its graduates have made to the field of medicine. Their leadership skills powered with competence are highly sought-after, not just in Pakistan but in several other nations; a testament to the honor and esteem that they have earned.
The institutions of the AKDN each one play a vital role in helping underprivileged individuals to regain their footing in the society. Across the various programs of these ten institutions, a wide range of projects are undertaken, spanning the domains of culture, economics, education, health, rural services, society, vocational training, and gender equality. Together, they work towards creating monumental impact in promoting sustainable development in diverse spheres of life.
Fundamentally, the Aga Khan University is an autonomous, non-governmental institution dedicated to advancing the cause of human welfare and wellbeing through education, research, and public service initiatives. What began in Karachi has since expanded to encompass several regions, including Africa, Kenya, Afghanistan, the United Kingdom, Tanzania, and Uganda. The university’s services have extended to these diverse locations, underscoring its commitment to stimulating social good and facilitating positive change on a global scale.
The university comprises a teaching hospital, medical sciences and nursing schools, a medical college, and a unique Institute for Muslim Civilizations visibly positioned in the Islamic world. The admission policy of the university is based on merit and devoid of bias, fostering the growth of future medical leaders and thinkers who will tackle important health problems with a sense of ethics and ability. While it is heartening to see that many students from underprivileged backgrounds have excelled in the competitive admission process, it is also true that some students from more privileged backgrounds have not succeeded. At this university, however, there is no discrimination based on social class and external pressures do not sway decisions. It is noteworthy that the university treats male and female students equally, regardless of their financial background. In cases where students are unable to bear their expenses, the Aga Khan University provides full or partial financial assistance to them.
Let us now examine the positive impact of Aga Khan University, which was founded in Pakistan in 1983, on the lives of Pakistanis and beyond, as the university has since established branches in other countries. Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, the new President has impelled the ongoing programs with ambitious plans of taking the university current capacity to its new heights.
The Aga Khan University, which operates the Aga Khan Hospital and Aga Khan Health Centers, ensures that none of its income is sent outside Pakistan. Instead, all earnings are directed towards the development and construction of the university and hospital, as well as for research and writing, and the well-being of patients, irrespective of their color, caste, or religion.
Moreover, a dedicated society has been established to assist patients who are unable to afford the cost of their treatment which provides assistance to eligible patients on a tiered basis.
Aga Khan University has the honor of serving in all provinces and 130 cities of Pakistan, including Gilgit-Baltistan. The number of talented students from Pakistan who have graduated from Aga Khan Medical College is 12,000. The significance of the 750 male and female students who are part of the class of 2022 cannot be overstated. It is noteworthy that 60 percent of the male and female graduates from Aga Khan University prefer to remain in Pakistan and serve the community, rather than seeking opportunities abroad. The university also provides employment to approximately 13,000 individuals.
Over time, Aga Khan University has gained global recognition and now attracts students from countries beyond Pakistan who not only study in Karachi but also participate in degree programs offered by the university in foreign countries. Additionally, the university provides technical assistance programs to teachers and nurses in countries such as Syria and Afghanistan.
The Aga Khan University has a rich history of achievements and accolades. It initiated the Post-RN Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in 1988 and established the Institute for Educational Development as the first private university in 1993. In 2001, it introduced the Master of Science in Nursing degree program and in 2003, it also initiated the country’s first international standard examination board.
The Aga Khan University has trained thousands of doctors and nursing staff in government hospitals to improve their skills. During the global outbreak of the Coronavirus, the Aga Khan University Hospital treated 4,500 critical patients, tested 379,000 people for the virus, and administered 59,000 vaccinations. The university has also been actively promoting awareness and consciousness among the people regarding the virus.
Last year, Pakistan faced a massive loss of life and property due to mega floods. In response, the Aga Khan University provided medical facilities to approximately 300,000 flood victims in their respective areas.
The university’s commitment to women’s rights is also noteworthy, with 57% of students graduating from Aga Khan University being women. Additionally, 51% of faculty members, 39% of employees, and 35% of managers are women.
The history of Aga Khan University is an inspiring and exemplary story of a visionary who has steadfastly marched towards success despite immense odds to achieve its goal, inspiring millions of people around the world. The university has illuminated the lives of people with the light of knowledge and excellence.
His Highness the Aga Khan’s notable endeavors are focused on alleviating the hardships of those afflicted with economic and social disparities. These ten key institutions, operating under the auspices of the Aga Khan, have set a benchmark for many countries, presenting a model that is akin to an alchemy recipe. These institutions incorporate the latest principles and sciences of the world, enabling individuals facing social discrimination to play a prominent role in society and chart new paths for their future.
By adopting these principles for their institutions, especially in underdeveloped countries, nations can pave the way for their large populations to contribute significantly to the development and prosperity of their respective countries, ultimately reaping the benefits of such valuable principles.
If we take the example of Pakistan, the recent global pandemic of COVID-19 caused massive loss of life and economic impact throughout the country. During this crisis, the government leveraged the expertise of Aga Khan University to research and develop a COVID-19 vaccine, as well as explore methods for treating patients suffering from the disease. This collaboration between the government and Aga Khan University could be considered a successful pilot project for its adaptation in various sectors of the government.
