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On December 13th, the world and the Ismaili community celebrate the 88th birthday of His Highness, The Aga Khan, a global spiritual leader whose life and work are a shining example of compassion, progress, and zeal to human development. His contributions transcend the boundaries of color, caste, religion and nationality, embodying a legacy of human development and welfare.
Today marks a day of joy and reflection, as his tireless efforts have unleashed in transformative change to innumerable communities across many continents. His work in education, health, and community development has not only enriched the ISMAILI community but also benefited humanity at large. His vision and actions have consistently aimed to alleviate human suffering and create pathways for prosperity and dignity of human life.
In 1960, during a visit to Hunza, Pakistan, The Aga Khan established the first Golden Jubilee School. It became a symbol of hope and enlightenment for the region of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), where education levels at the time were alarmingly low, with only 3% of the population being literate. Through his visionary approach, long-term planning, and dedication, literacy rates in the region have now skyrocketed to 97%.
Spreading the schools in the GB region and educational activities, has transformed the lives of its people, fostering self-reliance, skill development, and a brighter future. This success is reflected in southern Pakistan, where Karachi and Sindh have benefitted from the formation of state-of-the-art educational and healthcare institutions. These facilities, recognized globally, continue to raise the bar for quality education and medical care.
Aga Khan Health Services, founded in the 1920s, now operates 575 healthcare centers across various countries, including Pakistan, India, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, and Uganda. These centers provide life-saving medical support to masses, often in remote and regions of marginalized communities. His efforts have not only delivered healthcare to millions but also provided financial assistance to those unable to afford treatment. In 2024 alone, under the policies of Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, the President of Aga Khan University, approximately 7 billion Pakistani rupees were allocated to support medical expenses for underprivileged patients in the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH).
AKUH in Pakistan, alongside a network of 940 hospitals and health facilities, represents a dream realized through decades of dedicated work by The Aga Khan. These institutions uphold the highest standards of healthcare.
Prince Karim Aga Khan’s efforts extend far beyond Pakistan. Through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), he has driven projects in agriculture, education, infrastructure, climate change and disaster relief. For instance, in conflict-affected regions like Syria and Lebanon, the Aga Khan Foundation has provided technical assistance to 7,000 farmers, helped rebuild schools, and delivered critical medical supplies. Over 19,000 alternative educational institutions have been established to ensure continuity in education for displaced children.
The focus on environmental sustainability is also evident in his efforts, with 9,200 trees planted in areas suitable for reforestation. These initiatives symbolize his steadfast commitment to save the humanity from the existential threat of climate change.
The Aga Khan’s work has garnered admiration and respect worldwide. Leaders, dignitaries, and communities across the globe express their heartfelt gratitude for his unparalleled contributions. His promotion of peace, pluralism, and human dignity is a guiding light in a world often divided by conflict and inequality. His personality the reflection of the continued success of the AKDN and the Global Centre for Pluralism, both of which serve as testaments to his commitment to creating inclusive and prosperous societies.
As we celebrate his 88th birthday, we honor the life of His Highness, The Aga Khan, devoted to the service of human development and its uplifting. May this milestone be an inspiration to all, reminding us of the power of compassion, perseverance, and shared responsibility in building a better world.
Translated by MM News, Editorial Team
